Definitions of abnormality Flashcards
What is the DSM 5
American classification system for disorders
Stands for diagnostic and stastical manual of mental disorders
What is the ICD
UK classification system for disorders
Stands for international classification of diseases
What are the 4 definitions of abnormality
Statistical infrequency
Deviation from social norms
Deviation from ideal mental health
Failure to function adequately
Define statistical infrequency
Mathmetical way of identifying abnormal behaviour using the mean and standard deviation
Behaviour is abnormal if it is rare and deviates from the average but is normal if it’s within average
A normal distribution curve can be used to determine statisticically infrequent behaviour. Those who fall outside of normal distribution are rare and therefore abnormal
E.g. High iq, height, perfect memory
Evaluate statistical infrequency
Uses objective measures - E.g. uses standard deviation, mean, distribution curves
Some rare behaviours are desirable - e.g. height
Can be culturally biased - E.g. auditory hallucinations isn’t abnormal in some countries
Define deviation from social norms
Society has explicit (written) and implicit(unwritten)rules on acceptable behaviour
Not abiding by implicit rules e.g. have manners is abnormal
Evaluate deviation from social norms
Helps keep society in order - Implicit rules e.g. manners promotes kindness and respect
Limitation - Influenced by time - e.g. homosexuality being illegal until 1970’s but legal now
Limitation - Doesn’t take into account context - E.g. bikini in different places has different responses
Limitation - Differs from culture to culture - E.g. personal space
Define failure to function adequately
Individual is unable to cope with the demands of everyday life
E.g. Constantly not turning up to work
Rosenhan and Seligman identified signs to see if someone is failing to function adequately:
Unpredictable behaviour - E.g. Impulsive, uncontrollable
Personal distress - E.g. Excessive emotions
Irrational behaviour - E.g. unreasonable thinking/behaviour
Observer discomfort - Making others uncomfortable
Evaluate failure to function adequately
Limitation - Subjective - E.g. Observer discomfort may be different for everyone
Strength - Recognises patients perspective
Limitation - Presence of a abnormality/sign doesn’t always result in failure to function
Nomothetic vs ideographic
Define deviation from ideal mental health
Jahoda identified 6 characteristics of normal behaviour
Absence of the characteristics = Abnormal
Positive self attitudes
Self actualisation/personal growth
Autonomy
Integration - Coping with stress
Environmental mastery(adapting)
Reality perception
Evaluate deviation from ideal mental health
Limitation - Culturally biased - E.g. autonomy - E.g. moving out can be discouraged
Limitation - Subjective - E.g. Ideal mental health can be different for other people/not confined to the 6 characteristics
Limitation - Unrealistic - E.g. self actualisation is difficult to achieve - therefore many would be abnormal
Nomothetic vs ideographic
