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JAMA. 1971;217(2):165-170. doi: 10.1001/jama.1971.03190020025005

"Normal" and "Deviant" Sexual Behavior

  1. Judd Marmor, MD
  1. From the Divisions of Psychiatry, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center and the Department of Psychiatry, University of California School of Medicine, Los Angeles.

Abstract

It is necessary to put aside our culturally acquired biases to achieve an objective perspective on what constitutes "normal" and "deviant" sexual behavior. Sexual practices and mores have varied widely in the course of human history and in different cultures. Our present concepts of normal and deviant behavior cannot be divorced from the value systems of contemporary society. Since value systems are always in the process of evolution and change, we must be prepared to face the possibility that some patterns of sexual behavior currently considered deviant may not always be so regarded.

Footnotes

  • Reprint requests to Mount Sinai Hospital Division, Box 54723, Los Angeles 90054 (Dr. Marmor).

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