De-Pathologizing Sex

My conception of sex-positivity rejects the automatic pathologization of alternative sexualities. A problematic sexual behavior (e.g., stereotypical exhibitionism) is therefore not just another example of the fundamentally destructive power of sexuality, but is rather viewed as a maladaptive manifestation (i.e. a true "perversion") of an otherwise neutral desire. Instead of demonizing that desire, and dooming those who possess it without choosing to a lifetime of stigma and self-loathing, we isolate its root, and then search for the influences - whether social, psychological, or otherwise - that lead to its problematic manifestation. In a truly healthy society, the desire to exhibit oneself sexually (for example) would not be considered abnormal, as appropriate outlets for its expression would be made available without stigma, and individuals would be able to indulge those desires without engaging in harm, violation of consent, or threatening the general social order. It is not the seed's fault when a bad crop results from neglect.