Abormality : Statistical Infrequency Flashcards
1
Q
Define statistical infrequency
A
Statistical infrequency occurs when an individual possesses a less common characteristic than most of the population. The behavioural displayed are statistically rare, for example being extremely intelligent with an IQ over 130.
2
Q
What is ‘rare’ in terms of percentages and population ?
A
Above average - top 2%
Below average - bottom 2%
3
Q
Describe what left skewed graphs look like and what they mean
A
- tail of the distribution lies to the left
- the mean and the median have a lesser value than the mode
- distribution : population has very high scores
4
Q
Describe what right skewed graphs look like and what they mean
A
- tail of the distribution lies to the right
- the mean and the median have a greater value than the mode
- distribution : population has a very low score
5
Q
Give the advantages of statistical infrequency
A
- being in the top 2 % is just as unusual and statistically infrequent as behind in the bottom 2%. Just because a behaviour is statistically infrequent it does not mean that the person is abnormal and requires treatment. Statistical infrequency can be a good thing
- the judgements are based on objective , scientific and unbiased data that can help indicate abnormality and normality. These results can indicate wether someone needs psychological help and assistance
6
Q
Give the disadvantages of statistical infrequency
A
- it involves labelling some people as abnormal and this is not beneficial. People in the bottom 2% may be labelled in a negative way by other members of society and thus could have a negative effect upon them and how they view themselves. It could affect self confidence and self esteem and lead to further problems.
- there seems to be a subjective cut off point between statistical infrequency and normality. We need to decide the dividing line between where normality and abnormality starts and ends, but this is very subjective. The cut off point can be questioned.