A01 (2) Definitions of abnormalities

• Overlap

  Deviation from ideal mental health and failing to function adequately
• 2nd part of mental health criteria

  - Independent of others - Good self-esteem- Realistic view of the world- Has the ability to work, love and enjoy leisure.
• Jahoda

  Suggested 8 criteria to see if someone was mentally healthy;- No symptoms of distress- Able to think rationally- Has the ability to self-actualise- Can cope with stress
• Deviation from social norms

  A very different way to look at normality and abnormality is to ignore the issue of what makes someone 'abnormal' but what makes someone 'normal'
• Example: intellectual disability disorder

  An individual must be failing to function adequately in order to be diagnosed with intellectual disability disorder
• Rosenhan and Seligman


  Proposed that when someone isn't coping they will no longer conform to interpersonal rules, experience personal distress and behave in a way that is irrational/dangerous
• Failure to function adequately

  A person may cross the line between normal and abnormal when they can no longer cope with the demands of everyday life. They are unable to maintain basic standards of nutrition, hygiene can't hold down a job or maintain a relationship.