Definitions of Abnormality

Question 1

Evaluate statistical infrequency as a definition of abnormality

Answer 1

+ Based on hard statistical evidence

• Not all infrequent characteristics are looked down upon
  Ex: Abnormal levels of empathy (Highly Sensitive Person), IQ above 130 (genius)

Question 2

Evaluate faliure to function adaquetly as a definition of abnormality

Answer 2

+ Takes into account the patients perspective, so both patients interpretation and psychiatrists opinion will be consididered.

• Labelling people if they still lead a high quality of life may feed into negative steryotypes

Question 3

Who proposed faliure to function adequetly as a definition of abnormality and definition

Answer 3

Rosenhan and Seligman

Not obeying social or interpersonal rules
Are in distress or distressing
Behaviour has become dangerous

Question 4

Describe the deviation from social norms definition of abnormality

Answer 4

Suggests that “abnormal” behaviour is based upon straying away from the social norms in a specific culture

Question 5

Evaluate deviation from social norms as a definition of abnormality

Answer 5

• Could be used to enable negative parts of cultures
  Ex: “Nymphomania” was made to cement differences between classes and discriminate against women
• Discrepancies between cultures may arise from its use. In some African and Asian cultures hallucinations could be seen as positive spiritual connection.

Question 6

Who proposed deviation from mental health as a definition of abnormality and its critera

Answer 6

Jahoda (1958)
+ Ability to self actualise
+ Have accuate perception of ones self
+ Not be disrressed
+ Normal levels of motivation
+ High self-esteem

Question 7

Evaluate mental health definition

Answer 7

• Unrealistic expectation of ideal mental health, even one critera missed would make you abnormal
• Idea of self-actualisation could be seen as selfish in some cultures