4.1.1 Deviation from social norms Flashcards
What is deviation from social norms?
Social norms vary in each society, they are a set of unwritten rules to follow. One way to define abnormal behaviour, is to see if it goes against the societal norms.
What is one main thing we have to remember about deviation from social norms?
One thing we have to remember is that social norms are specific to the culture we currently live in and are often different for different generations and cultures.
What are the strengths of using ‘deviation from social norms’?
/Developmental norms
/Social dimension
/Protects society
/Distinguishes between normal and abnormal
/Helps people
Explain how DFSN allows developmental norms?
This definition allows for developmental norms, E.g. it may be normal for a 1-year-old to be carried everywhere by its parent, but this would be abnormal if it was a 50-year-old.
Explain how DFSN protects society?
This definition looks at an individual’s abnormal behaviour and seeks to protect society from it.
Explain how DFSN distinguishes between normal and abnormal?
This definition has a clear indication of what is considered normal and abnormal as most of us understand and are aware of social norms in our own culture.
Explain how DFSN helps people?
This definition allows society to get involved in individuals abnormal behaviour and help them, when they may not be able to seek or identify the help they need.
What are the limitations of deviation from social norms?
/Changes over time
/Ethnocentric
/Cultural differences
/Individualism
Explain how DFSN changes over time?
This definition does not explain abnormality changing over time. Homosexuality was not removed from the ICD until the 1990s
Explain how DFSN is ethnocentric?
This definition is based on western societal norms and reflects the majority, which is a white population.
Explain how DFSN has cultural differences?
This definition does not make it clear how to deal with cultural differences in normal and abnormal behaviour.
Explain how DFSN does not include individualism?
This definition does not account for those who do not conform to social norms but are not abnormal, such as those that are individualistic or eccentric in their behaviour.
