Explanation
The concept of edgework was developed by sociologist Stephen Lyng to explain risky and thrill-seeking behavior. Edgework describes activities that involve negotiating the “edge” between safety and danger, control and loss of control.
Examples include:
- extreme sports,
- illegal street racing,
- graffiti writing,
- substance use,
- or certain forms of criminal risk-taking.
Lyng argued that modern societies characterized by routine, bureaucracy, and control may increase the attraction of intense emotional experiences and voluntary risk-taking.
In criminology, edgework is strongly associated with cultural and emotional approaches to crime emphasizing excitement, identity, embodiment, and adrenaline.
Theoretical Reference
Edgework is closely associated with cultural criminology and theories examining risk, emotion, and deviant subcultures.