Psychopathology

Question 1

Statistical frequency in clinical diagnosis

Answer 1

• Uses objective, quantitative data to identify anomalous mental health
• E.g. A 30+ score on the BDI indicates severe depression
• Ensures consistency and reliability in diagnosis, allowing prioritisation of care to be accurate

Question 2

Statistical infrequency in a positive light

Answer 2

• Alone, SI doesn’t consider the merit of a behaviour, simply its rarity
• Some characteristics are positive, like high creativity or IQ
• Therefore it cannot be used in isolation to define abnormality

Question 3

DFSN in clinical diagnosis

Answer 3

• Significant deviation from societal norms can be easily witnessed
• E.g. In Schizotypal personality disorder, eccentric thinking, appearance and behaviour often violate norms

Question 4

DFSN universality

Answer 4

• Norms vary between cultures and generations
• E.g. hearing voices is abnormal in western society, but spiritual in others
• If clinicians fail to account for it, this variability can lead to misdiagnosis or stigma

Question 5

F2F as a threshold

Answer 5

• Depicts clearly when professional intervention is needed/appropriate
• Gives us a clear criterion for the distribution of professional aid, as those whose daily life is impaired are prioritised

Question 6

F2F as normal

Answer 6

• Most fail to cope at some point, such as during bereavement or a break-up
• It’s unfair to label this as abnormal, but the F2F is no less real because the cause is clear
• Therefore, context, severity and duration of symptoms need to be considered holistically before labelling a behaviour as abnormal.

Question 7

IMH as comprehensive

Answer 7

• By outlining specific criteria, you create a framework for assessing psychological states
• Assessments are thorough and balanced as various aspects of psychological functioning are addressed
• The efficacy and precision of intervention and assessment is enhanced as treatments become targeted

Question 8

IMH and culture

Answer 8

• Independence and self-actualisation are western ideals. Collectivist cultures value interdependence and community
• Could lead to misdiagnosis and demonstrates a limited applicability