Psychopathology Flashcards
What are the 4 main definitions for abnormality?
- Statistical infrequency
- Deviation from social norms
- Failure to function adequatelty
- Deviation for ideal mental health
What is statistical infrequency?
Abnormality is defined as those behaviours that are extremely rare. Descriptive statistics are used to determine what is normal in order to identify what is abnormal
How do you do statistical infrequency?
A behaviour is rated and the frequency is distributed on a graph (normal distribution curve). The abnormal ratings would be those at either end as the middle would be the mean behaviour (average/common)
What are the key criticisms of statistical infrequency as a definition for abnormality?
- Some abnormal behaviour is desirable such as having a high IQ. Equally, there are normal behaviours that are undesirable such as depression which is relatively common
- The cut off point between normal and abnormal is subjectively determined
Why might statistical infrequency sometimes be appropriate?
Diagnosis for mental disorders
What is meant by deviation from social norms?
Abnormal behaviour is seen as a deviation from unstated rules about how one ‘ought’ to behave. Anything that violates these rules is considered to be abnormal
How do you measure deviation from social norms?
In any society there are standards of acceptable behaviour that are set by the social group, and adhered to by those in the group. Anyone who behaves differently from these norms is classed as abnormal
What are the key criticisms of deviation from social norms as a definition for abnormality?
- Social norms are susceptible to change, for example, homosexuality was once considered abnormal and is now widely accepted
- Deviance is related to context; some behaviours are acceptable in certain environments but not others e.g) wearing a bikini
- Cultural differences; a behaviour considered abnormal by Western standards may not be the same for all cultures
What is a strength of deviation from social norms as a definition for abnormality?
This definition distinguishes between desirable and undesirable behaviour, this feature is absent from the statistical infrequency model
What is meant by cultural relativism?
The view that behaviour can’t be judged properly unless it is viewed in the context of the culture in which it originates
What is the DSM? (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders)
A list of mental disorders that is used for diagnosis. For each disorder, a list of characteristics are given; e.g) symptoms that should be looked for
What are behavioural characteristics of phobias?
- Freezing
- Fainting
- Catastrophising
- Avoidance
What type of disorder is a phobia?
Anxiety disorder
What are emotional characteristics of phobias?
Anticipation/presence of stimulus produces:
- Agitation
- Anxiety/panic
- Embarrassment
What are cognitive characteristics of phobias?
- Feelings of anxiety and panic
- Irrational thinking resistant to logical arguments
- Intrusive thoughts
- Marked/persistent fear
