NCJ Number
183713
Date Published
2000
Length
464 pages
Annotation
This book examines deviance as a concept subject to many changes that are dependent on time, place and the influence of those who may impose a label of deviance.
Abstract
The first three chapters provide theoretical perspectives on deviance and illustrate theories that attempt to explain deviant behavior. Chapter 1 discusses the classical school and the observation that deviance is a choice made by a rational individual. This is in marked contrast to the positivist school, which is presented in Chapter 2. This approach emphasizes determinism, factors beyond the individual's control. The chapter expands on determinism by stressing explanations such as economic determinism, social structural theories, subcultural explanations and control theory. Chapter 3 revisits the production of deviance and examines labels and interest group conflicts. The remaining eight chapters discuss: (4) crime in the streets--against the person; (5) crime in the streets--against property (6) assaults against children and spouses; (7) deviance and organizations; (8) deviant drug use; (9) mental disorders; (10) cyberdeviance; and (11) sexual deviance--prostitution and homosexuality. Tables, notes, indexes