Images of Deviance and Social Control: A Sociological History

by Stephen J. Pfohl

A very scholarly, upper-level text examining deviance and social control using nine major theoretical perspectives. For each perspective, Pfohl describes the basic theoretical images of deviance; discusses dominant research strategies and social control policies; locates the perspective within a general sociohistorical framework; discusses its status today; and assesses its strengths and weaknesses. While primarily sociological, it spans the concerns of a variety of disciplines (criminology/CJ, anthropology, religion, psychology, medicine, political science), integrating references to literature, film, music, and painting to show parallels between images of deviance produced by scientists and those produced by artists. A persuasive theme is that power relations, which are socially organized, shape a person's perception, definition, and reaction to deviance; thus, the study of deviance and social control is decidedly political. In the second edition, in addition to general updating, Pfohl enhances material on race and gender in the hierarchical/patriarchal power structure. He also expands and elaborates upon the critical perspective, devoting the two final chapters to it.

Genres: Textbooks

528 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1994

Reviews

[Francesca · Rating 4 out of 5]

good piece of criminology !

[Sandra · Rating 2 out of 5]

Evil vs. Good (God)
are you sick? or "lucifer" told you to do it?
Where are you? Who are you? do I know myself well? do I control myself, or let others to control me? Is my social behavior the same as I'm with myself?

I'm confused!!!

[Adina · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the 1st books I've read on deviant behaviour, best rudimentary book I've read, although my professor really motivated me to read it -- He was 1 of the greatest professors I ever had.

[Lori · Rating 1 out of 5]

The author somehow managed to make a topic that should be interesting very, very boring.