Definititions Of Abnormality

Question 1

What is psychopathology

Answer 1

Scientific study of mental disorders (abnormalities) such as depression, phobias and obsessive compulsive disorder

Question 2

How do you diagnose someone with a mental disorder

Answer 2

We must decide in what way their behaviour is abnormal
There is not one single accepted definition of what makes them abnormal

Question 3

Social norms

Answer 3

Standards of acceptable behaviour that are created by a social group, and adhered to by all those who are socialised into that group

Question 4

Deviation from social norms

Answer 4

Abnormal behaviour is that which goes against the unwritten rules in a given society or culture

Question 5

Limitations of deviation from social norms

Answer 5

• in some instances it can be beneficial to break social norms, e.g. suffragettes
• social norms of a society change over time
  -deviation from social norms does not always have mental health consequences, those who do not conform may not be abnormal but just eccentric

Question 6

7 attributes of inadequate function

Answer 6

-personal distress
-maladaptive behaviour
-observer discomfort
- irrationality
-unpredictability
-violating moral code
-unconventionality

Question 7

7 attributes of inadequate function

Answer 7

-personal distress
-maladaptive behaviour
-observer discomfort
- irrationality
-unpredictability
-violating moral code
-unconventionality

Question 8

Deviation from ideal mental health

Answer 8

Behaviour is abnormal if it fails to meet prescribed criteria for psychological normality

Question 9

Six characteristics p1

Answer 9

Positive attitudes towards oneself
Having self respect, high self esteem, confidence and a positive self concept

Question 10

Six characteristics p2

Answer 10

Self actualisation
Experience personal growth and development. Reach one’s full potential and feel fulfilled.

Question 11

Six characteristics p3

Answer 11

Autonomy
Being independent, self-reliant and able to make personal decisions for oneself

Question 12

Six characteristics p4

Answer 12

Resistance to stress
Having effective coping strategies and being able to manage everyday anxiety-provoking and stressful situations

Question 13

Six characteristics p5

Answer 13

Accurate perception of reality
Non distorted, realistic and objective view of the world (no hallucinations or delusions)

Question 14

Six characteristics p6

Answer 14

Environmental mastery
Being competent in all aspects of life and the ability to meet the demands of any situation and the flexibility to adapt to changing life circumstances

Question 15

Limitations of deviation from ideal mental health

Answer 15

Comprehensive criteria based on similar models for physical health, but mental health may not be the same as physical

Question 16

Limitations of deviation from ideal mental health +

Answer 16

This definition of abnormality is a positive, holistic approach to diagnosis

Question 17

Limitations of deviation from ideal mental health —

Answer 17

The criteria is demanding and unrealistic. Most people do not meet all the ideals at any given moment.

Question 18

Limitations of deviation from ideal mental health —

Answer 18

Many of the criteria are vague and difficult to measure, therefore subjective.

Question 19

Limitations of deviation from ideal mental health —

Answer 19

The criteria used to judge mental health can be accused of cultural bias. Collectivist cultures emphasise communal goals and regard autonomy as undesirable, unlike individualistic cultures. People from collectivist may be seen as abnormal from criteria.

Question 20

Limitations of statistical infrequency

Answer 20

The definition fails to account for behaviour that is statistically rare but desirable. Above average IQ is not seen as normal but admirable.

Question 21

Limitations of statistical infrequency

Answer 21

Some psychological disorders are not statistically rare. Depression may affect 27% of elderly people. This makes it common but doesn’t mean it’s not a problem.

Question 22

Limitations of statistical infrequency

Answer 22

Many rare behaviours or characteristics don’t affect normality (e,g. Left handedness)