Psychopathology Flashcards
What is the statistical infrequency definition of abnormality?
Any person’s measurement that falls out of the defined field (2 standard deviations away) can therefore have an abnormal characteristic. This isn’t always a negative thing.
Is the statistical infrequency definition of abnormality objective?
It is impartial and fair as there is an objective cut off point. eg: IQ is usually between 90 - 100. Therefore it is not subjective.
Is the statistical infrequency definition of abnormality black and white?
According to this definition, someone can only be placed in normal or statistically infrequent. Therefore this ignores a grey area, and maybe it should be on a spectrum.
Does the statistical infrequency definition of abnormality have practical applications?
Can help with a basis for diagnosis, and we can identify those who need treatment urgently. Therefore each individual gets a tailored diagnosis.
Does the statistical infrequency definition of abnormality account for all abnormalities?
Depression could be considered common - 20% suffer from a depressive episode at some point in their lifetime. This may prolong a sufferer’s experience.
What is the deviation from social norms definition of abnormality?
Abnormality is a social deviant behaviour. If behaviour is seen as abnormal, it is viewed by society as undesirable and anti-social, not rare.
Some rules are implicit whilst others are policed by laws.
Does the deviation from social norms definition of abnormality take into account different types of norms?
Takes into account situational and developmental norms so could be considered to be more holistic. For example it takes context into account, therefore more valid.
Is the deviation from social norms definition of abnormality subjective?
Subjective which limits validity. Different norms between individuals, such as queueing for British individuals. Does not allow for a fair and equal assessment.
Does the deviation from social norms definition of abnormality have practical applications?
It allows therapists to intervene when necessary to stop people acting in a way that will hinder their progress in society as they have a baseline of societal norms.
Are there issues around the concept of deviation from social norms as a definition of abnormality?
Norms change throughout time, such as masks during the pandemic. Definition of abnormality is era dependent.
What is the deviation from ideal mental health definition of abnormality?
You are abnormal if you don’t meet the criteria of ideal mental health.
Who came up with the six characteristics of ideal mental health?
Jahoda
What are the six characteristics of ideal mental health?
Positive attitude towards oneself
Accurate perception of reality
Autonomy
Resisting stress
Self-actualisation
Environmental mastery
Is the deviation from ideal mental health definition of abnormality refreshingly positive?
It does not look at deficits or negative aspects, as it helps individuals improve their own attitude without the need for professional help. It can be used as a more holistic definition.
Is the criteria for ideal mental health as a definition of abnormality too simplistic?
Majority considered abnormal by standards suggested. Humanism believes very few people achieve self-actualisation, definition may need to be more realistic.
Can we use the deviation from ideal mental health definition of abnormality to formulate a plan of action?
Ensure autonomy in small decisions. Criteria can be incorporated into everyday life so six criteria can be used effectively in therapy.
Are the criteria of ideal mental health important in all cultures?
High self esteem not important in collectivist cultures. Personal growth and autonomy may be more applicable to individualist cultures.
What is the failure to function adequately definition of abnormality?
Not functioning adequately causes stress and suffering for the individual - a person may not be coping with life in a normal way.
Who created the features of personal dysfunction?
Rosenhan and Seligman
What are the features of personal dysfunction?
Personal distress
Maladaptive behaviour
Unpredictability
Irrationality
Observer discomfort
Violation of moral qualities
Unconventionality
Is it easy to assess the consequences of failure to function adequately as a definition of abnormality?
If a person consistently fails to perform everyday actions this could mean they are failing to function in a societal manner. This can be assessed by a questionnaire - quantitative data makes definition more objective.
Is the failure to function adequately definition of abnormality influenced by subjective judgements?
What may seem to one person as failing to function adequately may not be the same to another. This implies the definition lacks generalisability.
Is the failure to function adequately definition of abnormality more realistic?
Suggests it is not black and white as a person may decline due to circumstances. It is well rounded due to its emphasis on environmental and societal factors.
Is the failure to function adequately definition of abnormality culturally relative?
What may seem as failing to function adequately in one culture may not be in another, depending on social norms/values.. This means we cannot generalise the explanation.