Defining abnormality and categorising mental disorders

Question 1

name the 4 ways of defining abnormality

Answer 1

• statistical infrequency
• failure to function adequately
• deviation from social norms
• deviation from ideal mental health

Question 2

describe statistical infrequency

Answer 2

Any behaviour that is shown less often than the normal amount for that society, which by its nature is abnormal
(e.g. IQ very below average)

Question 3

problems with statistical infrequency

Answer 3

• being abnormal does not mean you have a psychological disorder (e.g. highly gifted or intelligent people are abnormal but do not have a psychological disorder)
• very socially sensitive

Question 4

describe failure to function adequately

Answer 4

if a person is unable to live a normal life adequately they could be considered abnormal
(e.g. can’t hold down a relationship,(which is fair enough as women are really scary) or maintain a job)

Question 5

problems with failure to function adequately

Answer 5

• other factors such as lack of education or money can mean a person doesn’t live their life adequately –> however does not mean they have a mental illness

Question 6

describe deviation from social norms

Answer 6

Not following the social norms that is maintained through laws, guidelines, or societal pressures (e.g. you must work, wear appropriate clothes such as shoes and can’t make certain noises or talk to yourself)