Definitions of abnormality Flashcards

1
Q

What are the 4 definitions of abnormality?

A

Statistical infrequency, deviation from social norms, deviation from ideal mental health and failure to function adequately

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2
Q

What is statistical infrequency?

A

When abnormality is defined as those behaviours that are extremely rare

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3
Q

Give an example of statistical infrequency?

A

An extremely high or low IQ

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4
Q

What is deviation from social norms?

A

When abnormal behaviour is seen as a deviation from unstated rules about how one ‘ought’ to behave

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5
Q

What are social norms?

A

Standards of acceptable behaviour that are set by a social group, and adhered to by those socialised into that group

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6
Q

Give an example of a social norm.

A

Not queue jumping

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7
Q

What are the 2 types of social norm?

A

Implicit and explicit

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8
Q

Give an example of an implicit social norm.

A

Not laughing at a funeral

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9
Q

Give an example of an explicit social norm.

A

Punching someone in public

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10
Q

Give one strength of statistical infrequency.

A

As its objective, it is clear whether a behaviour is abnormal or not. No bias.

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11
Q

Give one weakness of statistical infrequency.

A

Culturally relative. E.g. hearing voices = normal in some cultures, but a symptom of schizophrenia in others.

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12
Q

Give one strength of deviation from social norms.

A

Distinguishes between desirable and undesirable behaviours

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13
Q

Give one weakness of deviation from social norms.

A

Susceptible to abuse - what is ‘socially acceptable’ changes. E.g. homosexuality.

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14
Q

What is failure to function adequately?

A

When abnormality is defined by an inability to go about daily life.

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15
Q

If an individual is failing to function adequately, what may they not be doing?

A

Eating regularly, washing, going to their job…

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16
Q

What is required for an abnormality diagnosis when using the failure to function adequately explanation of behaviour?

A

Distress to the individual or those around them

17
Q

What is the DSM?

A

A list of mental disorders that is used to diagnose mental disorders

18
Q

What does WHODAS stand for?

A

World Health Organisation Disability Assessment

19
Q

What are the 6 areas of the WHODAS?

A

Understanding and communicating, getting around, self-care, getting along with people, life activities and participation in society.

20
Q

How is the WHODAS used?

A

Individuals rank the six areas from 1 to 5

21
Q

What is deviation from ideal mental health?

A

When abnormality is defined in terms of mental health, behaviours that are associated with competence and happiness.

22
Q

Which psychologist is associated with deviation from ideal mental health?

A

Marie Jahoda

23
Q

What are the 6 categories associated with deviation from ideal mental health?

A

Self attitudes, personal growth, integration, autonomy, accurate perception of reality and mastery of environment.

24
Q

Give one strength of failure to function adequately.

A

The behaviour is observable - problems can be picked up by others

25
Give one weakness of failure to function adequately.
Abnormality does not always stop the individual from functioning
26
Give one strength of deviation from ideal mental health.
The six categories allow for clear goals to be set
27
Give one weakness of deviation from ideal mental health.
Unrealistic criteria + difficult to measure