Psychopathology - definitions of abnormality Flashcards
what are the four different ways that we define abnormality?
statistical infrequency, deviation from social norms, failure to function adequately and deviation from ideal mental health
what is statistical infrequency?
falling more than two standard deviations outside of the normal distribution of a characteristic
what is an evaluation of statistical infrequency?
+ it allows us to identify and help people who need it by diagnosing disorders
- unusual characteristics can be positive and not need treating
what is deviation from social norms?
not conforming to the unspoken roles in society (others expectations)
what is an evaluation of deviation from social norms?
- cultural relativism (not universal)
- subjective
- can lead to abuse of human rights
+ allows diagnosis of anti-social personality disorder
what is failure to function adequately and who was it proposed by?
Rosenham and Seligman. when someone can’t cope with the ordinary demands of everyday life, meaning they behave irrationally and unpredictably, causing observer discomfort
what is an evaluation of Rosenham and Seligman?
+ represents a threshold for when an individual needs professional help
+ references the patients perspective
- limits freedom of choice? discrimination?
- everyone fails to function sometimes (e.g. while grieving) so it’s not actually abnormal
what is deviation from ideal mental health and who proposed it?
Marie Jahoda.
checklist of traits of someone who has ideal mental health. if an individual doesn’t fit in them then they are abnormal
what is an evaluation of deviation from ideal mental health?
+ comprehensive, gives a list to compare ourselves/others to and realise what needs improvement
- unrealistic standards?
- culture-bound -> focuses on US and Europe
how do the definitions work best?
when all 4 are used together in order to diagnose mental disorders
