Psychopathology - Statistical Infrequency

Question 1

Meaning

Answer 1

Abnormal behaviour is that which is statistically rare

Question 2

In statistical terms

Answer 2

Instances of abnormality would lie at both extremes of a normal distribution

Question 3

Iq example

Answer 3

Significantly higher or lower iqs are quite rare or statistically infrequent
2.5% of population have above average iq and 2.5% have below average

Question 4

Normal distribution curve

Answer 4

Graph which shows where the average number of people fall into and the bottoms of the curves can be seen as the ‘abnormal parts’

Question 5

Positive - doesn’t account for

Answer 5

• IQ of over 130 is just as unusual as iq below 70
• high IQ = positive and desirable so statistical infrequencies can be a good

Question 6

Negative - not statistically rare

Answer 6

• some psychological disorders aren’t statistically rare. E.g. depression affects 27% of elderly people (NIMH,2001). = common but not a problem

Question 7

Negative - no effects

Answer 7

Many rare behaviours or characteristics have no bearing on normality or abnormality(e.g. left handedness)

Question 8

Advantage - judgement

Answer 8

• statistical infrequency = judgements based on objective, scientific and unbiased data that can help indicate abnormality + normality
• can indicate if someone needs psychological help + assistance e.g. iq below 70 could indicate mental disability