Psychopathology: Definitions of Abnormality

Question 1

Define Statistical deviation

Answer 1

something is considered abnormal if it is not observed frequently

Question 2

Define Deviation from Social Norms

Answer 2

Behaviour that is different from the accepted standards of behaviour in a community or society

Question 3

Evaluate Statistical Deviation as a definition of abnormality

Answer 3

+ Real life application

• Doesn’t consider desirable traits
• Doesn’t help giving people a label

Question 4

Evaluate Deviation from Social Norms as a definition of abnormality

Answer 4

+ Considers desirable traits
+ Real life application for Anti-Social personality disorder

• Doesn’t help giving a label
• Cultural relativism

Question 5

Define Failure to function adequately

Answer 5

Unable to cope with everyday life

Rosenhan’s list

Question 6

Define Deviation from ideal mental health

Answer 6

Looks at what is normal, then defines abnormal to those that don’t possess the things
Jahoda’s list

Question 7

Rosenhan’s List:

Answer 7

• No longer conforms to interpersonal rules
• Severe personal distress
• Irrational or dangerous behaviour

Question 8

Jahoda’s list

Answer 8

• No distress
• Self-actualise
• Cope with stress
• Realistic view of world
• Good self esteem
• Independent
• Work and enjoy leisure

Question 9

Evaluate Failure to function adequately as a definition of abnormality

Answer 9

+ Looks at patients perspective

• Bad to give people label

Question 10

Evaluate Deviation from ideal mental health as a definition of abnormality

Answer 10

+ Comprehensive

• Not specific
• Doesn’t help to give people label
• Unrealistic high standards