Definitions of abnormality Flashcards
How many types of abnormality are there?
4
What are the types of abnormality?
1- Statistical Infrequency
2- Deviation from Ideal Mental Health
3- Deviation from Social Norms
4- Failure to Function Adequately
What is a statistical infrequency?
when any behaviour is outside of the average
How can you tell if behaviour is outside of the average?
2 or more standard deviations away from the mean
What is the key word when explaining statistical infrequency?
RARE
What is the definition of statistical infrequency that should be used in an exam?
RARE behaviour outside of the statistical average
What are the limitations to using statistical infrequency to measure abnormality?
- ignores desirability of rare behaviour e.g., high IQ
- Ethnocentric
- THRESHOLDS are hard to distinguish
What is the key term when explaining the limitations of statistical infrequency?
THRESHOLD
What are the aspects of ideal mental health?
- having a positive view of oneself
- being capable of personal growth
- being independent / autonomous
- having an accurate view of reality
- resistant to stress
- being able to adapt to the environment
What is deviation from mental health?
When you deviate from the factors associated with ideal mental health
What are the limitations to explaining abnormality through deviation from ideal mental health?
- culture bias e.g., collectivist cultures DO NOT value independence and mark it as abnormal
- subjective = unreliable diagnosis
- by this definition everyone must be mentally ill as everyone experiences stress
What are social norms?
usual behaviours followed by a certain society or culture
What is deviation from social norms?
when you do not conform to social norms
What is a norm?
a standard or rule that regulates behaviour in a social setting
What are the limitations to explaining abnormality through deviation from social norms?
- culture bias / ethnocentric
