Define the statistical infrequency definition of abnormality.
The statistical infrequency definition of abnormality states that abnormal behavior is behavior that is very rare when compared to the rest of the population.
How is statistical infrequency used to measure abnormal behavior?
Statistical infrequency measures how common behaviors or traits are in the population, with the most uncommon traits being defined as abnormal.
Provide an example of a statistically infrequent trait and its implications.
An example is low IQ, defined as intelligence two standard deviations below the average, affecting only 2.28% of the population, indicating a need for support.
Explain why not all statistically infrequent traits are considered negative.
Not all statistically infrequent traits are negative; for instance, high IQ is rare but desirable, illustrating that rarity does not equate to abnormality.
Discuss the subjectivity involved in determining the cut-off point for statistical infrequency.
The cut-off point for defining abnormality is subjective, as it determines who receives treatment and who does not, leading to potential inconsistencies.
What does failure to function adequately refer to in the context of abnormality?
Failure to function adequately refers to an individual's inability to cope with daily life and interact effectively with the world and people around them.
How does observer opinion affect the assessment of failure to function adequately?
The assessment of whether an individual is coping is subjective and can vary between observers, potentially leading to low inter-rater reliability.
Describe the relationship between abnormal behavior and the ability to cope.
Some abnormal behavior is not linked to an inability to cope or intense distress, as certain psychopaths may function well in specific societal roles, potentially at the detriment of others.
How does failure to function differ from statistical infrequency and deviation from social norms in mental health assessment?
Failure to function respects and recognizes the patient's lived experiences and perspective, which statistical infrequency and deviation from social norms do not adequately address
Explain the concept of social norms and their variability.
Social norms are unwritten expectations of behavior that can differ across cultures, change over time, and vary depending on context.
What is the implication of deviating from societal expectations according to social norms?
Those who deviate from society's expectations are often seen as abnormal.
Discuss the cultural implications of defining abnormality based on social norms.
Cultural differences can lead to behaviours considered acceptable in one culture being viewed as deviant in another, highlighting the limitations of a universal definition of abnormality.
How does the definition of abnormality avoid Western ethnocentrism?
It respects cultural differences by not imposing a single definition of abnormality, thus avoiding the view that other cultures are abnormal.
What are Jahoda's six features of ideal mental health?
The six features are environmental mastery, autonomy, resisting stress, self-actualization, positive attitude towards oneself, and accurate perception of reality.
How does cultural bias affect the criteria for ideal mental health?
The criteria reflect an ethnocentric western viewpoint, which may not apply universally, as some cultures prioritize social roles over autonomy.
Why is it challenging to meet all criteria for ideal mental health?
It is very difficult to achieve all of Jahoda's criteria simultaneously, leading most people to be judged as failing to achieve ideal mental health.