Discussion Post
Question I: Sex and Deviance
Consider the information in the lecture, text, and PBS/Film information regarding the evolution of attitudes regarding sex. The work by Kinsey, and Masters and Johnson have all helped to inform our attitudes regarding sex. One only needs to stand in the check-out line at the grocery store for a few minutes, listen to popular music, or watch television or films to be aware of the powerful role that sex and all things sexual play in our society.
How would the positivist approach help us to understand the attitudes, beliefs, values, and norms that are associated with sex in our current society? How would the constructionist approach contribute to this discussion?
What do you think explains the "power" of sex? There are any number of examples you can use to explain the role of sex in our culture - including same sex marriage, LGBT, film and video game rating systems, fashion, the rising incidence of sexual assaults on college campuses and the military, pornography, prostitution - the list could go on for days! Also, consider what theory or theories might help explain sex as a form of deviance.
Question II: Unconventional Beliefs
For this discussion, identify and describe a specific attitude or belief that you think is or may be considered deviant. Using the criteria for deviance described in the first chapter, explain why this attitude or belief could be considered deviant.
Include in your description the "audience" who judges the attitude or belief and the types of negative reactions that are likely to occur. Does your description reflect a positivist or constructionist approach? What theory or theories help explain either the nature and magnitude of these attitudes or beliefs, including what type of person is most likely to hold these attitudes or beliefs (positivist approach), or how and why society has come to view these as deviant (constructionist approach)?
The response must include a reference list. Using Times New Roman 12 pnt font, double-space, one-inch margins, and APA style of writing and citations.