Definitions of Abnormality

Question 1

Statistical Infrequency

Answer 1

Idea that behaviours that are statistically rare should be viewed as abnormal. Statistics are gathered through normal distribution.
Any individuals who fall outside the ‘normal distribution’ (usually about 5%) are perceived as abnormal.

Question 2

Deviation from Social Norms

Answer 2

Every society has unwritten rules for acceptable behaviour.
Abnormal behaviour is any behaviour which goes against the social norms.
These vary across cultures, ages and even gender.

Question 3

Failure to Function Adequately

Question 4

Deviation from Ideal Mental Health