According to a study carried by a German Catholic Church, it has been revealed that priests found sexually abusing minors are psychologically normal. Trier Bishop Stephan Ackermann, who is the church's spokesman, said that only 5% priests have been diagnosed with ephebophiles.

In order to reach at the result, psychological tests were carried out by priests' dioceses. Tests were carried out around Germany and its results revealed that only 5% of priests can be said as ephebophiles.

Dr. Norbert Leygraf, who is one of the experts reviewing the report said, "There are no significant differences to results found in the general population in Germany". But, the report claims have been cancelled by Norbert Denef, who is the victims advocate.

Denef said he is not convinced by the study findings. He affirmed that culprits cannot be expected to assess their own crimes. However, on the other hand, the study remained stick to its points that there are only few, who have been classified as paedophiles.

It was in 2010 when the report was carried out to examine 78 abuse cases that were dating back to the 1960s. For now, the result of the study remains debatable.