psychopathology Flashcards
What are the definitions of abnormality? (AO1)
• Deviation from Social Norms: Behavior that deviates from social norms and cultural expectations is considered abnormal.
• Failure to Function Adequately: A person is considered abnormal if they cannot cope with everyday life, showing personal distress and an inability to perform normal functions (e.g., work, relationships).
• Deviation from Ideal Mental Health: Abnormality is the absence of characteristics necessary for optimal mental health, such as self-actualization, autonomy, and a realistic view of the world.
• Statistical Infrequency: Abnormality is identified when behavior is statistically rare (e.g., an IQ score significantly lower or higher than the average).
How can definitions of abnormality be applied to real-life scenarios? (AO2)
• Deviation from Social Norms: A person exhibiting aggressive or disruptive behavior in public may be seen as abnormal for violating societal norms.
• Failure to Function Adequately: Someone with severe depression who cannot perform daily tasks, such as getting out of bed or maintaining relationships, might be seen as failing to function.
• Deviation from Ideal Mental Health: Excessive anxiety, lack of independence, or unrealistic self-perceptions may be considered abnormal.
• Statistical Infrequency: A person with an IQ score of 55 (far below the average range of 85-115) would be deemed statistically abnormal.
What are the strengths and limitations of definitions of abnormality? (AO3)
Strengths:
• Statistical Infrequency: Provides objective, measurable criteria for identifying abnormal behavior.
• Failure to Function Adequately: Focuses on observable behaviors and real-life outcomes, such as the ability to maintain work and relationships.
Limitations:
• Deviation from Social Norms: Culturally relative, as norms differ between cultures, leading to potential bias.
• Failure to Function Adequately: Some abnormal behaviors (e.g., eccentricity) may not prevent daily functioning.
• Deviation from Ideal Mental Health: Subjective criteria that may not be universally achievable or relevant.
What are phobias, and what types exist? (AO1)
• Definition: Phobias are excessive, irrational fears of specific objects, situations, or activities, often out of proportion to the actual threat posed.
• Types of Phobias:
1. Specific Phobias: Fear of a specific object or situation (e.g., heights, spiders).
2. Social Phobia: Fear of social situations and being judged (e.g., public speaking).
3. Agoraphobia: Fear of situations where escape is difficult, like crowded places.
How can phobias be applied to real-life scenarios? (AO2)
• Specific Phobias: A person with a flying phobia might avoid air travel entirely, experiencing anxiety even at the thought of planes.
• Social Phobia: Individuals may avoid social gatherings, suffer panic attacks, or feel self-conscious in public.
• Agoraphobia: A person might confine themselves to their home due to fear of panic attacks in public spaces.
What are the strengths and limitations of phobia explanations and treatments? (AO3)
Strengths:
• Behavioral explanations (e.g., classical conditioning) provide insight into how phobias are learned, and treatments like systematic desensitization are effective.
• Biological approaches (e.g., evolutionary factors) explain why some fears (e.g., of snakes) are more common.
Limitations:
• Behavioral explanations may overlook cognitive factors in phobia development.
• Exposure therapy may increase anxiety for some patients rather than reducing it.
What is depression, and what are its symptoms? (AO1)
• Definition: Depression is a mental disorder characterized by persistent sadness, hopelessness, and lack of interest in activities once enjoyed.
• Symptoms:
Emotional: Sadness, feelings of worthlessness.
Cognitive: Negative self-thoughts, difficulty concentrating.
Behavioral: Lack of energy, changes in sleep or appetite.
Physical: Low energy, aches, and pains.
How can depression be applied to real-life scenarios? (AO2)
• A person with depression might struggle to get out of bed, withdraw from social interactions, and have difficulty concentrating at school or work.
• Treatments like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) help challenge negative thinking patterns and promote positive thought processes.
What are the strengths and limitations of depression explanations and treatments? (AO3)
Strengths:
• The cognitive-behavioral model is well-supported, with Beck’s Cognitive Triad linking negative thought patterns to depression.
• Biological explanations highlight neurotransmitters like serotonin, explaining the efficacy of medications.
Limitations:
• CBT may not work for everyone, particularly those with severe depression who might require medication.
• Biological approaches are criticized as reductionist, ignoring psychological and social factors.
