Defining abnormality

Question 1

What long term effects can labelling someone as abnormal have?

Answer 1

-Lesser sentences for criminals
-People unable to vote due to lack of understanding
-Discrimination

Question 2

What does Rosenhan and Seligman (1984) say about defining abnormality

Answer 2

Suggested 4 definitions of abnormality

Question 3

What are the four definitions of abnormality according to Rosenhan and Seligman?

Answer 3

1- Statistical infrequency
2- Failure to function adequately
3- Acting against social norms
4- Deviation from mental health

Question 4

How does Statistical Infrequency definine abnormality?

Answer 4

-Behaviour shown less often than normal amount in society is abnormal.
-E.g 3% of people in uk have schizophrenia, this makes schizophrenia abnormal.
-Doesn’t need a psychological disorder to be abnormal

Question 5

How does Failing to Function Properly define abnormality?

Answer 5

-If a person cannot live a normal life adequately they are considered abnormal by Rosenhan and Seligman
-Doesn’t transfer a label of mental illness but is a heavily associated symptom of mental illnesses

Question 6

How does Deviation from Social norms define abnormality?

Answer 6

-A person who does not abide by acceptable or normal social behaviours may be considered abnormal
-May be associated with mental illnesses such as OCD

Question 7

How does Deviation from Ideal mental health define abnormality?

Answer 7

-A person who does not meet ideal mental health criteria may be considered abnormal and of having a mental illness
-Criteria of ideal mental health is ambiguous and constantly changing

Question 8

What are some criteria of ideal mental health according to Jahoda in 1958?

Answer 8

1- Positive attitude towards self
2- Growth, development and realisation
3- Independent behaviour
4- A true perception of reality