Psychopathology Flashcards
What are the 4 definitions for abnormality?
-deviation from social norms
-failure to function adequately
-statistical infrequency
-deviation from ideal mental health
Define deviation from social norms as a definition for abnormality
-any behaviour which differs from that which society expects. behaviour that breaks the social norms are seen as abnormal
What are strengths of using deviation from social norms?
-real life application
What is a limitation of using deviation from social norms as a definition for abnormality?
-social norms change over time and also change between cultures therefore this definition has cultural bias
Define failure to function adequately as a definition for abnormality
-A person who fails to function and to cope with everyday life
What are some strengths for failure to function adequately for abnormality?
-real life application
-takes into account the patient’s subjective experience
What are some limitations for failure to function adequately for abnormality?
-too subjective
-too unreliable
Define statistical infrequency as a definition for abnormality
-a person’s trait, thinking or behaviour which is classified as abnormal if it is rare or statistically unusual.
what are some strengths of using statistical infrequency?
-real life application
What is a limitation of using statistical infrequency as a definition for abnormality?
-some behaviours are regarded as abnormal even though they are statistically frequent
Define deviation from ideal mental health as a definition for abnormality
Jahoda suggested 6 criteria necessary for ideal mental health. Any absence of these indicated individuals as being abnormal:
-resistance to stress
-growth development
-high self esteem
-autonomy(self reliant)
What are some strengths for deviation from ideal mental health as a definition for abnormality?
-positive focus
-real life application
What are some limitations of using deviation from ideal mental health as a definition for abnormality?
-cultural relativism-in different cultures, ideal mental health is defined differently 7
-low on validity-no evidence that certain behaviour deviates from ideal mental health
What is the DSM?
-Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental health