Definitions of Abnormality

Question 1

What are the 4 definitions of abnormality?

Answer 1

• Statistical infrequency
• Deviation from social norms
• Deviation from ideal mental health
• Failure to function adequately

Question 2

What is statistical infrequency?

Answer 2

When a characteristic is exhibited by less than 2% of a population.

Question 3

What is DFSN?

Answer 3

When a characteristic fails to follow unwritten societal rules of what is acceptable.

Question 4

What is deviation from ideal mental health?

Answer 4

When a characteristic means that a person no longer conforms to Marie Jahoda’s (1958) Guidelines to ideal mental health.

Question 5

What is Marie Jahoda’s criteria ideal mental health?

Answer 5

A person:

• Has no symptoms of distress
• Has an accurate and rational view of the self
• Has potential for self-improvement
• Can cope with stress
• Has a realistic view of the world
• Has good self-esteem and no guilt
• Is independent
• Can successfully work, love and enjoy leisure

Question 6

What is failure to function adequately?

Answer 6

When a person either:

• no longer conforms to standard interpersonal rules
• experiences severe personal stress
• or exhibits irrational or dangerous behaviour

Question 7

What are the benefits and limitations of using Statistical infrequency to classify abnormality?

Answer 7

Benefits:
-It provides an objective measurement of abnormality
Limitations:
-Not all uncommon traits are negative
-The label “abnormal” is often unappreciated and unnecessary

Question 8

What are the benefits and limitations of using Deviation from social norms to classify abnormality?

Answer 8

Benefits:
-Can be used to diagnose antisocial personality disorder
Limitations:
-Different cultures have different expectations.
-DFSN cannot be used as a sole diagnosis of abnormality
-This definition could be used to target minorities

Question 9

What are the benefits and limitations of using Deviation from ideal mental health to classify abnormality?

Answer 9

Benefits:
-Covers most reasons a person might seek out mental help
Limitations:
-These criteria might not be expected to be met in other cultures
-Sets an unrealistic standard for mental health.

Question 10

What are the benefits and limitations of using Failure to function adequately to classify abnormality?

Answer 10

Benefits:
-Considers the patient's perspective
Limitations:
-Can often just be DFSN which is not enough to classify abnormality alone (lifestyle choices)
-Assessment is usually subjective