Lesson 3 - Statistical Infrequency Flashcards
What is ‘Statistical Infrequency’?
Statistical Infrequency is when an individual possesses a less common characteristic than most of the population. The behaviours displayed are statistically rare, which may be abnormal.
How can IQ be used as an example for Statistical Infrequency?
If the IQ of the population is assumed to have a normal distribution curve then:
65% of the population will have an IQ score between 85-115
95% of the population will have an average IQ score between 70- and 130.
2.5% of the population will have an above average IQ score of 130 or over (This would be statistically infrequent and thus abnormal).
2.5% of the population will have a below average IQ score of 70 or under (This would be statistically infrequent and thus abnormal).
Evaluation of Statistical Infrequency (Strength) - Not all statistically infrequent / abnormal behaviours are negative
An advantage of statistical infrequency is that there is an equal chance to have an IQ score over 130 as there is to have an IQ score below 70. Having a high IQ is a positive and desirable trait, and this can help remove the idea that abnormality is a negative property.
Evaluation of Statistical Infrequency (Strength) - Objective and Scientific data
The judgements that are made from statistical infrequency are objective and scientific data. The data is quantitative, which helps indicate abnormality very clearly. This keeps psychology and the diagnosis of abnormalities scientific.
Evaluation of Statistical Infrequency (Weakness) - Labels people as abnormal by numbers / unethical
A person without a mental disorder who has a low IQ of 70 may be labelled in a negative manner by other people in society. This could have a negative effect upon them, and their self esteem. This means there is real life implications, so statistical infrequency could be regarded as unethical.
