Are reports about OCD changing what people mean by pedophilia?

There can be a real distinction. OCD can involve unwanted, distressing thoughts that clash with a person’s values. Having an intrusive thought by itself does not show that someone is sexually attracted to children or intends to act. But a headline or short article can’t establish anyone’s diagnosis, so it’s best not to diagnose the people in those stories from the outside.

I’d be wary of reading a few articles as evidence of a deliberate change in language or law. They may be describing different people and situations, and a catchy headline can flatten the details. If the concern is whether a particular claim is accurate, look for a careful explanation of how the diagnosis was made rather than guessing at a hidden motive.

The distinction shouldn’t be used to dismiss either OCD or the seriousness of abuse. Unwanted thoughts aren’t the same thing as actions, and a mental health label doesn’t make harmful conduct acceptable. For an individual case, qualified clinicians are the ones who can assess what’s going on. A news story alone usually won’t tell readers enough to draw firm conclusions.