Psychopathology - Definitions Of Abnormality: Deviation from ideal mental health

Question 1

What is deviation from ideal mental health and how is it used to define abnormality?

Answer 1

• Deviation from ideal mental health is a humanistic theory proposed by Jahoda in 1958
• Rather than defining abnormality, the theory defines features of ideal mental health and deviation from these indicates abnormality

Question 2

What are the eight features of ideal mental health according to Jahoda?

Answer 2

• No symptoms of distress
• Can perceive themselves correctly
• Able to self actualise
• Can cope with stress
• Have a realistic view of the world
• Good self-esteem and lack of guilt
• Independent (Autonomy)
• Can successfully work, enjoy leisure and love

Question 3

What is an advantage to using deviation from ideal mental health as away of defining abnormality?

Answer 3

-Deviation from ideal mental health is a holistic approach to diagnosis that helps an individual identify areas for personal development

Question 4

What is a disadvantage to using deviation from ideal mental health as away of defining abnormality?

Answer 4

-The theory could be seen as culturally biased towards a western individualist perspective as many cultures do not value independence and personal success as they focus instead on performing a social role
(E.g In a collectivist cultures such as in India or China they would place more importance on interdependence and the needs of the group rather than independence and autonomy)

Question 5

What is a disadvantage to using deviation from ideal mental health as away of defining abnormality?

Answer 5

• The criteria are difficult to achieve consistently

- This means that most people don’t achieve ideal mental health so they are defined as abnormal (wrongly)