Defining Abnormality Flashcards
What is statistical infrequency’s definition of abnormality?
Statistical infrequency occurs when an individual has a less common characteristic. This is measured when a person falls 2 deviations from the normal distribution.
What is deviation from social norms definition for abnormality?
Deviation from social norms concerns behaviour which is different from the accepted standard in a community or society.
What are some strengths of statistical deviation as a definition of abnormality?
+ real life application in diagnosis of intellectual disability disorder
+ objective measurement as it has a cut off point
What are some weaknesses of statistical deviation as a definition of abnormality?
– unusual characteristics may be positive e.g. high IQ
– labels people, not always beneficial
– cut off points will vary in different cultures/societies so it isn’t fully objective
– implies all abnormal behaviour is rare/infrequent which isn’t always the case (e.g. depression)
What are some strengths of deviation from social norms as a definition of abnormality?
+ makes a distinction between desirable and undesirable behaviour
+ deviance is defined in terms of transgression of social rules -> most of the time will be behaviour that hurts or damages others
What are some limitations of deviation from social norms as a définition for abnormality?
– not universal as cultural norms vary
– social norms change over time e.g. homosexuality
– deviation from social norms also changes in severity based on context
What does failure to function adequately define as abnormal?
Failure to function adequately occurs when someone is unable to cope with ordinary demands of day to day living and performs maladaptive behaviours. (behaviours that are counter active to one’s wellbeing)
What are other signs a person is failing to function adequately?
1 - When a person no longer conforms to standard interpersonal rules
2 - When a person experienced severe distress
3 - When a persons behaviour becomes irrational or dangerous to themselves or others
What are some strengths of failure to function adequately as a definition of abnormality?
+ recognises patients subjective experiences by viewing it from their point of view
+ can also be viewed objectively using fixed lists
+ real world application in the diagnosis of mental disorders such as intellectual disability disorder
What are some weaknesses of failure to function adequately as a definition of abnormality?
– subjective, some people may internally feel as though they are functioning adequately
– what may seem maladaptive to others may be adaptive to the individual
– not universal as other cultures may be seen as failing to function adequately through a Western lens
What is deviation from ideal mental healths definition of abnormality?
Deviation from ideal mental health occurs when someone does not meet a set criteria for good mental health
What are some strengths of deviation from ideal mental health as a definition for abnormality?
+ it is a positive approach as it considers desirable traits not the undesirable traits
What are some weaknesses of deviation from ideal mental health as a definition for abnormality?
– unrealistic criteria -> experiencing lack of some of Janodas criteria is common, incomplete definition so we don’t know how many criteria must be absent
- cultural relativism -> isn’t applicable to all cultures such as collectivist cultures
