In The Social Construction of Sexuality, Steven Seidman investigates the political and social consequences of privileging certain sexual practices and identities while stigmatising others. Addressing a range of topics from gay and lesbian identities to sex work, Seidman delves into issues of social control that inform popular beliefs and moral standards. The new third edition features three new chapters that focus on the changing cultures of intimacy, the promise and perils of cyber intimacies, and youth struggles to negotiate independence and intimate solidarity.

Steven Seidman has lectured widely in the United States and Europe on the topic of sexuality. He is the author of many books, including Romantic Longings: Love in America, 1830-1980, Embattled Eros: Sexual Ethics and Politics in America, Queer Theory/Sociology, and Beyond the Closet: The Transformation of Gay and Lesbian Life. He currently teaches sociology at the State University of New York at Albany.