Sociology of Deviant Behavior

The leading book in the field, Sociology of Deviant Behavior, Tenth Edition, continues its tradition of a balanced theoretical perspective while incorporating the most current research and empirical data available. For the course in social deviance, the Tenth Edition combines a thorough updating of research with its learning-theory based coverage of crime, alcoholism, drugs, suicide, mental disorders, and other behaviors that depart from group standards. More attention is paid to the discussion of gay movements, the social aspects of mental disorders, and suicide in the United States and other countries, providing cross-national comparison. Features: * Presents a sociological perspective without neglecting empirical evidence of the biological perspective or new emergent theories, such as left realism. * Coverage of physical disabilities and mental illness illustrates the fact that deviance is not always voluntary behavior. * Discussions relate forms of deviance to current issues of social control. * Boxed inserts, chapter summaries, and recommended reading lists provide resources and references for further study of important topics.
New to this edition: * A new chapter (Chapter 2) on social control provides complete coverage of this increasingly important topic in the study of deviance. * Material on computer sexuality and the Internet incorporates timely information on a new medium for communication and pornography. * Expanded coverage on eating disorders, a form of deviance often encountered in college age students. * Major sociological theories are also presented in brief summaries, allowing students additional review opportunities. * More attention is devoted to the social aspects of mental disorders providing a better opportunity to apply the sociological theories presented.