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Deviance as history: the future of perversion
1Department of Sociology, University of Houston, TX 77004.
Archives of Sexual Behavior
|February 1, 1994
Summary
Sexual deviance and perversions are socially constructed concepts, shifting with societal changes. Deviance reflects control issues, while perversion relates to desire, both influenced by broader social discourse.
Area of Science:
- Social Psychology
- Sociology of Sexuality
- Cultural Anthropology
Background:
- Examines the social construction of sexual deviance and perversions.
- Conceptualizes deviance as a problem of social control.
- Defines perversion as a problem of sexual desire.
Observation:
- Social concepts of sexual deviance and perversions are not static.
- These concepts are intertwined with societal discursive practices.
- Changes in societal practices lead to evolving understandings of sexual norms.
Findings:
- Sexual deviance is framed as a societal control issue.
- Sexual perversion is understood through the lens of desire.
- Historical analysis reveals shifts in conceptions of masturbation, homosexuality, pedophilia, and sadomasochism.
Implications:
- Understanding the social construction of sexual concepts is crucial for analyzing societal norms.
- The fluidity of these concepts highlights the impact of cultural and historical contexts.
- This framework aids in deconstructing contemporary attitudes towards diverse sexualities and behaviors.