Definitions of abnormality Flashcards
What is the definition of abnormality based on statistical infrequency
Any behaviour that is statistically uncommon, determined by the distribution of a behaviour in society.
Example of statistical distribution
1% of the population have Schizophrenia
2% have intellectual disability disorder
RWA of statistical infrequency
Helps to diagnose Intellectual disability disorder, where an IQ is lower than 70
Desirable traits in statistical infrequency
Those with an IQ of over 130 (2%) are labelled as abnormal, when they are not mentally ill and these traits are actually wanted.
Decreases usefulness
Common mental illnesses statistical infrequency
25% of population have depression which need treating but are not ‘abnormal’ according to this definition.
Not all abnormal ppl can be diagnosed.
Not benefit from label statistical infrequency
Those with a low IQ may gain a poor self-image or become an innovation for discrimination.
Definition of abnormality (deviation from social norms)
Those who don’t conform to unwritten rules of society such as hygeine and respecting personal space.
Example of deviation from social norms
Anti-social personality disorder causes people to harm others without feeling remorse.
REA of deviation from social norms
Diagnoses psychopathy
Culture realism (dfsn)
Norms change in cultures, in UK hearing voices is abnormal, but is seen as a supernatural gift of hearing ancestors in Ghana
Low temporal validity of deviation from social norms
Norms change over time, such as homosexuality which was a mental illness until 1973. This can result in violations iof human rights
DFSN controlling slaves
Black slaves who ran away were diagnosed with Drapetomania to control them.
What is abnormality (failure to function adequately)
Someone who is unable to cope with the demands of everyday life
What are signs of failure to function adequately
Maladaptive, irrational and dangerous behaviour. such as failure to eat, attend work and keep up with hygene
Example of failure to function adequately
Post-natal depression causes mothers to not be able to meet the demands of caring for themselves and their baby.
Some appear to function adequately but dont
Harold Shipman murdered his elderly patients, but functioned well, attended work, dressed well and ate well.
Some will be left untreated.
Failing to function not being abnormal in situations
When ill, we don’t eat, shower or go to work/school for a few days, but we are not abnormal.
Failing to function is only deviance
New age travellers do not have permanent accommodation or jobs, and could be inappropriately labelled as abnormal. This wastes professional time.
