Definitions of abnormality Flashcards
What is psychopathology?
The study of psychological disorders.
Define ‘statistical infrequency’
Idea that abnormality is based on how often behaviour occurs in a population.
How rare specific characteristics are in the population.
Abnormality is determined by how far an individuals behaviour deviates from the statistical norm.
Strength of statistical infrequency
Real world application
Used in clinical practice as part of formal diagnosis.
IQ below 70 —–> IDD
BDI —–> 30+ indicates severe depression
Uses quantifiable and objective data which allows professionals to clearly identify behaviours that deviate from statistical norms.
——> Helps ensure consistency and reliability in diagnosis, facilitating the development if appropriate treatment plans.
Weakness of statistical infrequency
Unusual traits seen as positive.
Assumes that all statistically rare characteristics are negative
+ problematic.
Some unusual traits (high creativity/IQ) seen as positive.
Fails to consider value and context of rare traits.
:. definition should not be used in isolation to determine abnormality.
Define ‘deviation from social norms’
Behaviour seen as abnormal if it significantly violates expectations + standards set out by a society or culture.
Social norms not static but change depending on time/place.
ASPD –> antisocial personality disorder = persistent patterns of disregard for other’s rights and societal rules.
Deviate from expected standards of empathy/ accountability
Strength of deviation from social norms
Practical applications
Definition provides clear criteria fro diagnosing abnormal behaviour.
—-> Identify behaviours that deviate from accepted societal standards.
ASPD
Schizoptypal personality disorder
~~terms like ‘odd’ and ‘eccentric’ cannot be quantified like in statistical infrequency so relies on social cues.
Positive impact in identification and diagnosis of abnormal behaviour
Weakness of deviation from social norms
Lack of universality
What is considered normal can vary by cultures.
Hearing voices —> van be associated with spiritual practices.
~~ variability can cause stigma/misdiagnosis
Cultural context may not b taken to account.
Not universally applicable.
Define ‘failure to function adequately’
Can no longer cope with the demands of everyday life.
~~~~~~ unable to maintain basic levels of hygiene/nutrition .
What were the additional signs proposed by Rosenhan and Seligman?
~Personal distress
~Irrationality
~Unpredictability
~Observer discomfort
~Maladaptive behaviour
~Violation of moral standards
~Unconventionality
Often used with other definitions of abnormality.
Strength of failure to function adequately
Represents threshold for help.
Sensible threshold for seeking professional help.
Inability to do everyday tasks = significant level of impairment.
There is a practical criterion that allow professionals to prioritise those who are in the most need.
Weakness of failure to function adequately.
Can be normal sometimes
Some circumstances which most people fail to cope (bereavement/relationship split)
Unfair to label these individuals as abnormal
Context should be considered
Another weakness of failure to function adequately
Discrimination and social control
Easy to label non-standard life choices as abnormal.
Some people actively chose to deviate from these social norms.
People who make unusual life choices on the risk of being labelled abnormal
———-> freedom of choice restricted
Define ‘deviation from ideal mental health’
Proposed by Marie Jahoda (1958)
Focuses on what makes someone normal instead of abnormal.
What are the 6 categories of a person who has ideal mental health
Positive self attitudes
Personal growth + self actualisation
Autonomy
Integration (resisting stress)
Accurate perceptions of reality
Environmental mastery (flexibility to adapt)
Anyone who deviates from at least one of these criteria’s would be classed abnormal.
Strength of deviation from ideal mental health.
A comprehensive definition.
Jahoda creates clear and comprehensive benchmark for mental health
~~~~>Provides a structured framework for assessing individuals psychological state by outlining specific criteria.
*Creates targeted and effective treatment plans.
—–> Enhances precision and effectiveness of clinical assessments and interventions.
