The Relativity of Deviance

By John O. Curra and John O. Curra

Book Overview

This engaging and informative book, by award-winning sociologist and criminologist John Curra, offers a valuable perspective on attitudes and behaviors labeled as deviant. The Relativity of Deviance, Fourth Edition, explores the meanings and constructions of social deviance and social reactions to it, he answers such questions as:

What is deviance? What comprises deviant behavior? How are deviants treated? How is deviance socially constructed and socially sustained? Why is the same attitude, behavior, or condition praised in one situation and condemned in another?

Through insightful and thought-provoking examples and informed accounts, the author illustrates that deviance cannot be explained or understood in terms of absolutes or essential characteristics nor can it be explained or understood apart from its social setting. This book approaches sex, violence, theft, drugs, suicide, rape, and mental disorders in a way that shows the critical role of sociocultural factors and social reactions in constructions of deviance and crime.

Contributor to the SAGE Teaching Innovations and Professional Development Award

Find out more at www.sagepub.com/sociologyaward

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1483377342
• ISBN13: 9781483377346
• Release Date: February 2016
• Publisher: Sage Publications, Inc
• Length: 408 Pages
• Weight: 1.25 lbs.
• Dimensions: 1.1" x 6.2" x 9.1"

Customer Reviews

Deviance explained

Not only did I study this book, I had the opportunity to learn from the author himself, John Curra. The book is very explanatory and easy to follow. It is recent and covers every area of social deviance. It is short and is very helpful in many aspects. The author is thorough and uses many real-life examples to get his point across. The book is definitely recommended to get an overall interpretation of such issues like alcoholism and rape.