Psychopathology - Definitions Of Abnormality Flashcards
What is the definition of statistical infrequency?
Numerically unusual behaviours or characteristics
What are the strengths of using statistical infrequency as a definition of abnormality?
Real world application - useful in diagnosis (e.g IDD) or assessments (e.g. BDI for depression)
What are the limitations of using statistical infrequency as a definition of abnormality?
Unusual characteristics can be positive - some not judged as abnormal e.g. high IQ
Benefits vs Problems - some with low IQ function adequately & dont benefit from labelling
What is deviation from social norms?
Social judgements about what is deemed as acceptable
Norms - culture bound
What are the strengths of using deviation from social norms as a definition of abnormality?
Real world application - used to diagnose some disorders (e.g. antisocial personality disorder)
What are the limitations of using deviation from social norms as a definition of abnormality?
Culture & situational relativism - different standards in different cultures therefore hard to make social judgements
Human rights abuses - social norm approach maintains control of minority groups (e.g. women)
What is failure to function adequately?
The inability to cope with demands of everyday life
What did Rosenthal & Seligman suggest what it looks like when someone is failing?
The person is non-conforming to social rules, in personal distress & a danger to themself or others
What are the strengths of using failure to function adequately as a definition of abnormality?
Represents a threshold for help - provides a way to identify when someone is in need of professional help
What are the limitations of using failure to function adequately as a definition of abnormality?
Discrimination & social control - may lead to people living non-standard lifestyles being judged as abnormal
May not be abnormal - many people experience failure (e.g. grief) but still require help
Who spoke about deviation from ideal mental health?
Jahoda - said it is considered normality rather than abnormality
What does ideal mental health look like?
Lack of symptoms
Rationality
Coping with stress
Realistic world view etc
What are the strengths of using deviation from ideal mental health as a definition of abnormality?
A comprehensive definition - includes most of the reasons anyone might seek help
What are the limitations of using deviation from ideal mental health as a definition of abnormality?
May be culture bound- some ideas (e.g. self actualisation) are specific to US/European cultures & independence varies within European cultures
Extremely high standards - few people ever meet them, but they’re useful as a goal for mental health
