Sociology 194
Terrence J. Stewart
Chapter 16 Notes: Varieties of Sexual Expression
What is “typical” sexual expression?
• Social value judgements determine the sexual behaviors considered
normal and abnormal by society.
• Individual sexual behaviors increase and decrease in popularity as
they are impacted by culture and historical change.
• Although significant debate over normal sexual progression remains,
certain behaviors are considered the most common deviations from
conventional sexual behavior, regardless of sexual orientation.
Paraphilias: Defined as sexual behaviors involving a craving that is unusual in
nature and potentially problematic; it causes distress, interferes with one’s
ability to work, interact socially, and progress in other life areas.
• Diagnosis of paraphilia possession requires consistent expression of
symptoms for at least six months.
• The process of arousal and orgasm regarding paraphilias is wide-
