Abnormality

• What are the four definitions of abnormality mentioned?

  Deviation from social norms, failure to function adequately, statistical infrequency, deviation from ideal mental health
• How is abnormality defined in the context of psychopathology?

  As a psychological or behavioral state leading to impairment of interpersonal functioning and/or distress to others
• What does deviation from social norms entail?

  • Draws a line between acceptable and unacceptable behavior
  • Explicit norms: laws (e.g., time off school)
  • Implicit norms: non-written rules (e.g., OCD behaviors)
  • Must persist to be considered abnormal
• What are the strengths and weaknesses of statistical infrequency?

  Strengths:

  • Objective measure with clear cut-off points
  • Reduces misinterpretation

  
  

  Weaknesses:

  • Infrequent behavior can be positive (e.g., high IQ)
  • Frequent mental illnesses (e.g., depression) may go unrecognized
• What is meant by failure to function adequately?

  It refers to an individual's inability to perform daily activities effectively
• How is deviation from ideal mental health defined?

  As a failure to meet criteria for perfect psychological well-being
• What are the criteria for ideal mental health according to Jahoda?

  • Self-actualization
  • Accurate perception of reality
  • Autonomy
  • Resistance to stress
  • Adaptation to the environment
  • Positive self-attitude
• What are the strengths and weaknesses of deviation from ideal mental health?

  Strengths:

  • Positive approach focusing on ideal behavior

  
  

  Weaknesses:

  • Sets unrealistically high standards
  • Culturally biased criteria
• What is a limitation of the failure to function adequately definition?

  Some individuals can function adequately but still have a mental illness
• How can social control relate to the definition of abnormality?

  • Social norms can be subjective
  • May exclude nonconformists from society
• What is the practical application of defining abnormality through social norms?

  • Focuses on observable behavior
  • Allows for identification and intervention for abnormal behavior
• What is a potential issue with cultural bias in defining abnormality?

  Individuals from non-western cultures may be misdiagnosed due to differing cultural norms
• How does the individual's perspective improve the definition of abnormality?

  • Takes the patient's personal distress into account
  • Reduces reliance on clinician-only diagnosis