definitions of abnormality

Question 1

what are the definitions of abnormality

Answer 1

1) failure to function adequately
2) deviation from social norms
3) deviation from ideal mental health
4) statistical infrequency

Question 2

explain the definition of failure to function adequality

Answer 2

defines abnormality in terms of individuals who are unable to meet the demands or cope with the demands of everyday life, for example, going to work in the morning or basic hygiene

Question 3

evaluate the definition of failure to function adequality

Answer 3

1) cultural relativism
2) FFA behaviour may not be linked to abnormality but other factors, eg losing a job may be due to the economy not psychopathology
3) FFA is subjective and context dependant, for example, not eating is considered FFA however prisoners on hunger strikes for protest is viewed differently

Question 4

explain the definition of statistical infrequency

Answer 4

defines abnormality in terms of behaviour that is extremely rare and uncommon, often measured using a normal distribution curve with ‘normal’ individuals within the mean and top of the curve and abnormal either ends of the curve

Question 5

evaluate statistical infrequency

Answer 5

1) cut off point is subjective
2) cultural relativism
3) Fails to distinguish between desirable and non-desirable behaviours

Question 6

explain the definition of deviation from social norms

Answer 6

defines abnormality in terms of behaviours that differ from the unwritten set of expected behaviours from society or the majority, such as holding a door open to be polite.

Question 7

evaluate the definition of deviation from social norms

Answer 7

1) distinguishes between desirable and undesirable behaviours
2) could be subject to abuse
3) cultural relativism

Question 8

Explain the definition of deviation from ideal mental health

Answer 8

defines abnormality in terms of mental health, behaviours which are associated with competence and happiness.

Question 9

evaluate the definition of ideal mental health

Answer 9

1) unrealistic criteria
2) positive outlook promoting humanistic psychology movement
3) cultural relativism

Question 10

who identified that criteria for ideal mental health and what are some of the behaviours on it.

Answer 10

1) Jahoda
- mastery of the environment
- positive view of the self
- self-actualization
- high self-esteem