Abnormality - Definitions

Question 1

Define the deviation from social norms?

Answer 1

Social norms are unwritten standards of acceptable behaviour
When people break from these norms they are considered socially defiant
Therefore the people and their behaviour is considered abnormal

Question 2

What is an example of a deviation from social norms?

Answer 2

Hearing voices

Putting the kettle on 10 times

Question 3

Define the failure to function adequately?

Answer 3

Mentally healthy people can hold down jobs, leave the house whereas people that can’t carry out day to day task such as this will be considered abnormal - told to seek treatment

Question 4

What is the failure to function adequately measured by?

Answer 4

The GAF scale

Question 5

What is the GAF scale?

Answer 5

A series of questions to classify the type and extent of an abnormality someone may have before they make a certain decision
Used to eliminate or diagnose illnesses

Question 6

Who was ideal health proposed by?

Answer 6

Jahoda

Question 7

What are Jahoda’s 6 characteristics to define ideal mental health

Answer 7

Positive attitude towards the self
Self actualisation - have potential and will fulfil this
Resistance to stress
Personal autonomy - self reliant - remain stable even when life is hard - do not rely on others to make decisions
Accurate perception of reality
Adapting to and mastering the environment - being competent in areas of work and life in general

Question 8

What are the limitations of deviation from social norms?

Answer 8

It can change with time
Risk of abuse / social control
Cultural issues

Question 9

What are the limitations of failing to function adequately?

Answer 9

Not an indicator of disorders
Not the whole picture
Exceptions to the rule

Question 10

What are the limitations of deviation from idea mental health?

Answer 10

Difficulty of self actualisation
Possible benefits to stress
Cultural issues - varies between cultures as criteria initially based on western ideals