Defining Sexual Deviance

Abstract

The purpose of this chapter is to build on previous discussions of “defining deviance” (which have been particularly described in Chapter 2) by offering various ways to understand sexual deviance. Specifically, “statistical” sexual normalcy and deviance are discussed using data from the US National Survey of Sexual Health and Behavior (NSSHB) and nationally representative samples in the United States and the United Kingdom. Next, “cultural” sexual normalcy and deviance are evaluated based on data investigating cultural perceptions and understandings of relationships and sexual behaviors. Using survey data, attitudes and preferences toward sexual behaviors, orgasms, and sexual satisfaction are also highlighted. A critical discussion of what types of sexual behaviors are regarded as “sex” is offered in the context of the 1998 Clinton-Lewinsky oral sex scandal in the United States. To clarify sexual deviance, American serial killer, rapist, and necrophiliac, Ted Bundy is offered as an example. Finally, sexual deviance is defined as a phenomenon that emerges from opinions about particular people in particular types of relationships engaging in particular behaviors.