Definition of exhibitionist

The term "exhibitionist" originated in the late 19th century, specifically in the field of psychology. It was coined by the Austrian psychologist Richard von Krafft-Ebing, who used it to describe individuals who derived pleasure from exposing themselves in public. This behavior, which came to be known as exhibitionism, was seen as a sexual deviation requiring medical intervention. Ebbing attributed exhibitionism to childhood traumas, such as being caught exposing themselves, and suggested that the exhibitionist development was linked to a fear of sexual normalcy or fear of intimacy. Over time, the concept of exhibitionism has been expanded to include other forms of public behavior that are motivated by a strong desire for attention or admiration, rather than solely sexual gratification. Today, the term is commonly used in a variety of contexts, including psychology, law enforcement, and popular culture, to describe individuals who exhibit extreme or unusual behavior in public settings.