Definitions Of Abnormality

Question 1

What are the four definitions of abnormality

Answer 1

1. Statistical infrequency
2. Deviation from social norms
3. Failure to function adequately
4. Deviation from ideal mental health

Question 2

Define statistical infrequency

Answer 2

Abnormality is defined as those behaviours that are extremely rare or uncommon

Question 3

Define deviation from social norms

Answer 3

Abnormal behaviour is seen as a deviation from unstated riles about how one ‘ought’ to behave

Question 4

Define failure to function adequately

Answer 4

Abnormality is seen as lacking the ability to go about daily life resulting in distress to themselves or others

Question 5

Define deviation from ideal mental health

Answer 5

Abnormality is defined in terms of an absence of criteria which indicates good mental health

Question 6

Outline how we can distinguish between what is and isn’t common behaviour

Answer 6

Using a normal distribution curve

Question 7

Provide an example of a disorder which can be diagnosed using statistical infrequency

Answer 7

Intellectual disability disorder (having an IQ below 70)

Question 8

State two examples of disorders which can be diagnosed using deviation from social norms

Answer 8

1. Antisocial personality disorder (psychopathy)
2. Schizotypical personality disorder (SPD)

Question 9

Which other definition of abnormality can be applied to intellectual disability disorder

Answer 9

Failure to function adequately

Question 10

What are Jahoda’s 6 criteria for ideal mental health

Answer 10

1. Self attitudes
2. Personal growth and self-actualisation
3. Integration
4. Autonomy
5. Accurate perception of reality
6. Environmental mastery