Disadvantage of statistical infrequency

Question 1

What is the first disadvantage of statistical infrequency?

Answer 1

some abnormal behaviours are desirable (for example having a high IQ)

Question 2

How would you elaborate on the first disadvantage of statistical infrequency

Answer 2

• this is a limitation because this definition of abnormality assumes that any behaviour classified as ‘abnormal’ is problematic
• it is also a limitation as we are unable to distinguish between desirable and undesirable behaviours

Question 3

Name a second disadvantage of statistical infrequency

Answer 3

• ## it links to cultural relativism as what is statistically uncommon in one country may be statistically common

Question 4

How would you elaborate on the second disadvantage of statistical infrequency?

Answer 4

• this means that any differences about social norms or mental health are ignored
• for example, a case study in Maori New Zealand found that 88 people stated hearing voices was as common as saying hello in the morning (hearing voices is a symptom of schizophrenia)
• this is a limitation as cultural differences are overlooked as this definition only takes on a mathematical approach

Question 5

Name a third disadvantage of statistical infrequency

Answer 5

The cut off point is subjective

Question 6

How would you elaborate for the third disadvantage of statistical infrequency

Answer 6

• according to this definition, we would have to decide where to separate normality from abnormality
• for example, some people think it is normal to sleep 8 hours, others think that it is 8
• this is a limitation as, although it is largely scientifically credible, it can be prone to subjective interpretation.