Section 1: Definitions Of Abnormality Flashcards
Define Statistical Infrequency
Statistical infrequency is when a person’s thinking, behaviour or trait is considered abnormal if it is rare or statistically unusual.
Outline an strength of Statistical Infrequency
Improves clinical diagnostics. SI is used in clinical practice both as a part of a formal diagnostics and a way to assess the severity of an individuals symptoms. Diagnosis of intellectual disability disorder requires an IQ of below 70.An example of SI used in an assessment tool is the Beck depression theory. A score of 30+ is widely interpreted as severe depression. This shows that the value of SI criterion is useful in diagnostic and assessment processes.
Outline a limitation of Statistical Infrequency
Cultural bias: What is considered statistically normal can vary widely between cultures. It primarily reflects the norms of Western cultures where much behavioural research is conducted leading to potential misdiagnosis. The method overlooks the diversity of cultural norms and values potentially mislabelling behaviours in one culture as abnormal in another due to rarity in assessing culture.
Define Deviation from Ideal Mental Health
Occurs when someone does not meet the set of criteria for good mental health
Outline a strength of Deviating from Ideal Mental Health
Useful for identifying when someone needs help they need which category is the shortfall
Outline a limitation of Deviating from Ideal Mental Health
Jahoda had an unrealistic expectation. The vast majority of the population are unable to acquire and maintain the criteria. The majority of the population would be considered abnormal when only missed one criteria. Therefore DIMH is considered a very limited method of diagnosing mental health disorders.
What are Marie Jahoda’s 6 criteria for Ideal Mental Health (SEARAP)
S - Self Actualisation
E -Environmental Mastery
A - Accurate Perception of Reality
R - Resistance to Stress
A - personal Autonomy
P - Positive attitude to self (Self esteem)
Define Failure to Function Adaquately
Failure to Function Adaquately is when an individual can no longer meet the demands of everyday life
Outline a strength of F2FA
One strength is that the definition provides clear guidelines for the classification and diagnosis of abnormality as it is focused on observable signs that an individual isn’t coping. This makes it easier for the individual to get help.
Outline a limitation of F2FA
One limitation of the definition is that it is an overly subjective measure. One person’s lack of hygiene may be another’s eco friendly refusal to use deodorant meaning F2FA may lack validity.
Define Deviaton from Social Norms
DSM is defined as behaviour is different from the accepted standards of behaviour in a community or society. It is based off the assumption that we all know what normal behaviour is and that we can tell when someone is abnormal simply by looking at their behaviour.
Outline a strength of DSN
The model has useful direct implication. We can easily notice people acting outside of the norms. Once identified we can ensure they get help.
Outline a limitation of DSN
The definition lacks temporal validity. Social norms change over time therefore the behaviours which goes against the norms are also changing. Behaviour that is abnormal in one era may not be in another.
What are Rosenhan & Seligman’s features of behaviour that indicate whether a person is F2FA (UUMVOID)
U - Unpredictability & loss of control
U - Unconventiality
M - Maladaptiveness
V - Violation of ideal standards
O - Observer discomfort
I - Irrationality
D - personal Distress
