Definitions of Abnormality*

Question 1

Define ‘statistical infrequency’.

Answer 1

What a person’s quantitative characteristics are uncommon in society / do not fit within the range that is considered ‘normal’. E.g. IQ/weight/height.

Question 2

Give a limitation of ‘statistical infrequency’.

Answer 2

Disadvantages:
❌ The cut off points are rather arbitrary.

❌ Some infrequent characteristics are considered abnormal when, in actual fact, they are good. E.g. High IQ - ignores the question of desirability of behaviour.

❌ Culturally relative - arranged marriages are statistically frequent in India but abnormal here.

Question 3

Define deviation from social norms.

Answer 3

Behaviour that deviates from what is considered normal. E.g. it is acceptable to laugh and joke at a family gathering but not if that family gathering is a wake.

Question 4

Give a disadvantage of deviation from social norms.

Answer 4

Disadvantages:
❌ - Rack found that African Caribbeans are labelled as abnormal in Britain on the basis of behaviour considered normal in their culture.

❌ Definitions can lead to labelling

❌ Social norms can change over time - e.g. homosexuality was considered abnormal but is now accepted by many - Kinsey Report - removal from the DSM-1.

Question 5

Define failure to function adequately and name the two indicators of this definition.

Answer 5

Unable to lead a normal life or engage in normal behaviours - e.g. agoraphobic person is abnormal as their fear to leave the house impairs their ability to do everyday activities.

Personal distress and maladaptiveness of behaviour.

Question 6

Define maladaptiveness of behaviour as an indicator of failing to function adequately.

Answer 6

Behaviours that prevent a person from adapting to new situations - e.g. avoidance and passive aggressiveness.

Question 7

Define personal distress as an indicator for failing to function adequately.

Answer 7

Experiencing negative emotional reactions as a result of insight into another’s negative emotions.

Question 8

Give a disadvantage of failure to function adequately.

Answer 8

Disadvantages:
❌ Subjective - who decides what healthy functioning looks like? - Misdiagnosis.

❌ Depends on the person - unusual behaviours may be a coping strategy for the individual.

Question 9

List Jahoda’s 7 elements for optimal living.

Answer 9

1) . Positive view of self
2) . Personal growth
3) . Autonomy
4) . Accurate view of reality.
5) . Positive relationships.
6) Master of your own environment (adaptability).
7) . Resistance to stress.

Question 10

Give a limitation to deviation from ideal mental health as a definition for abnormality.

Answer 10

Limitations:
❌ High standard to achieve - many may feel worse for not meeting the standard - worse mental health.

❌ Culturally relative - created with western cultures in mind - inability to generalise to other cultures.