Paper 2 Terms: Normality vs. Abnormality

Question 1

Abnormality

Answer 1

Something that falls outside the boundaries of what is accepted in society.

Question 2

Medical Model of Abnormality

Answer 2

• An approach that examines each disorder separately and establishes a set of symptoms that define it.
• A medical classification of abnormal behavior implies recognizable behavior patterns in every disorder.
• Strengths: flexibility allows for various perspectives concerning mental illness.
• Limitations: symptoms of mental illness are not as obvious or observable as physical symptoms.