Abnormality Flashcards
What characterizes a statistically abnormal behavior?
Statistically rare in the population
Abnormal behaviors are defined as those that occur infrequently within a given population.
How is the spread of data in a population measured?
Standard deviation
Standard deviation indicates how much individual data points deviate from the mean.
What are the strengths of statistical infrequency in determining abnormality?
Objective assessment
This approach relies on mathematical calculations, which can provide a clear framework.
What is a major weakness of statistical infrequency?
Cultural differences
The definition of what is considered ‘abnormal’ can vary significantly across cultures.
List the six features of ideal mental health according to Jahoda.
- Positive attitude towards self
- Accurate perception of reality
- Autonomy
- Environmental mastery
- Personal growth
- Integration
Jahoda’s criteria emphasize a holistic view of mental health.
What is a strength of Jahoda’s ideal mental health criteria?
Emphasizes positive characteristics
This approach focuses on what constitutes good mental health rather than just the absence of illness.
What is a weakness of Jahoda’s ideal mental health criteria?
Vague criteria
The criteria can be difficult to measure and apply in practice.
What does deviation from social norms imply?
Behavior that goes against unwritten societal rules
Social norms dictate acceptable behaviors within a society.
What are the two factors of personal dysfunction according to Rosenhan and Seligman?
- Personal distress
- Maladaptive behavior
These factors help identify individuals who may need psychological assistance.
What is a strength of the failure to function adequately approach?
Easy identification of those needing help
This approach can quickly highlight individuals who are struggling with daily functioning.
What is a weakness of the failure to function adequately approach?
Subjective interpretation of dysfunction
Different individuals may perceive dysfunction differently, leading to inconsistencies.
True or False: Social norms are static and do not change over time.
False
Social norms can evolve, and behaviors that were once considered abnormal may become accepted.
What is an example of irrationality in behavior?
Behaviors that do not make logical sense
Such behaviors may indicate psychological distress or abnormality.
Fill in the blank: Individuals who create social norms are often influenced by _______.
[cultural context]
The creation of social norms is often rooted in the cultural background of a society.
What is an ethnocentric bias in the context of defining abnormal behavior?
Judging behaviors based on one’s own cultural standards
This bias can lead to misinterpretation of behaviors from different cultures as abnormal.
What is a key aspect of the ‘unconventionality’ criterion?
Deviation from typical behavior patterns
Unconventional behaviors may be viewed as abnormal in certain contexts.
FFA- Personal Distress
Key feature of abnormality. Includes depression and anxiety disorders
FFA- Maladaptive Behaviour
Behaviour stopping individuals from attaining life goals, socially and occupationally
FFA- Unpredictability
Displaying unexpected behaviour characterised by loss of control e.g. attempting suicide after failing a test
FFA- Irrationality
Displaying behaviour that cannot be explained in a rational way
FFA- Observed Discomfort
Displaying behaviours causing discomfort to others
FFA- Violation Of Moral Standards
Displaying to violating society’s moral standards
FFA- Unconventionality
Displaying unconventional behaviours
DMH- Positive Attitude Towards Self
Having self-respect and a positive self-concept
DMH- Accurate Perception Of Reality
Perceiving the world in a non-distorted fashion. Having an objective and realistic view of the world
DIMH- Autonomy
Being independent, self-reliant and able to make personal decisions
DIMH- Environmental Mastery
Being competed in all aspects of life and able to meet the demands of any situations. Having the flexibility to adapt to changing life circumstances
DIMH- Self-actualisation
Experiencing personal growth and development
DIMH- Resisting Stress
Having effective coping strategies and being able to cope with everyday anxiety- provoking situations
