Perversion

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Perversion is a term and concept describing those types of human behavior that are perceived to be a serious deviation from what is considered to be orthodox or normal. Although it can refer to varying forms of deviation, it is most often used to describe sexual behaviors that are seen as abnormal or excessive. Perversion differs from deviant behavior, since the latter refers to a recognized violation of social rules or norms (although the two terms can apply to the same thing). It is often considered derogatory and in psychological literature the term paraphilia is now used instead, though this term is controversial.

The concept of perversion is somewhat subjective, and its application varies depending on culture. As a psychological term it was originally applied especially frequently to homosexual behavior. However, homosexuality is no longer treated as a disorder in mainstream psychiatry (see Homosexuality and psychology) and lighter (though sometimes offensive words) such as poof and queer are now used.

The verb pervert is less narrow in reference than the related nouns, and may be used with no sexual connotations. One might say, for example, that a modern film version of Romeo and Juliet "perverts" Shakespeare's version of the story. There is a shortened slang version, "perv", and the adjective, "pervy". When it is used in slang or such a form, the person who said it does not always mean it, or is joking.

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Last updated on Saturday March 01, 2008 at 10:29:44 PST (GMT -0800)
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