definitions of abnormality

• What is statistical infrequency?

  Abnormality defined as rare behavior or characteristics.
• How is statistical infrequency measured?

  Using a normal distribution curve and up-to-date statistics.
• Where does abnormality occupy on a normal distribution curve?

  The extreme ends, two standard deviations away from the mean.
• Give an example of a disorder that fits the statistical infrequency definition.

  Schizophrenia, as only 0.5% of the population has it.
• What is a weakness of the statistical infrequency definition?


  Not all statistical infrequencies are negative.
• Provide an example of an unusual characteristic that is statistically infrequent but celebrated.

  Having a very high IQ.
• Why would statistical infrequency alone not be used to make a diagnosis?

  Because it does not consider the desirability or impact of the characteristic.
• What is a potential issue with labelling an individual as abnormal based on statistical infrequency?

  It can be unhelpful and contribute to a poor self-image or discrimination.
• Give an example of a condition where being labelled as statistically infrequent may cause more distress than the condition itself.

  Someone with a low IQ who can live happily without distress.
• Why may being labelled as statistically infrequent be unhelpful when deciding who needs treatment?

  It may cause more distress than the condition itself and may not accurately indicate the need for treatment.
• What is deviation from social norms?

  Behaviour that is very different from acceptable behaviour in a cultural group.
• What makes behaviour abnormal according to this definition?

  When it is unexpected, offensive, or incomprehensible to others.
• What factors should be considered when determining the degree of norm violation?

  The extent of violation, importance of the norm, and value attached by the social group.
• How may violations of norms be seen?

  Different violations may be seen as rude, eccentric, abnormal, or criminal.
• Give an example of a disorder that fits this definition.

  Antisocial personality disorder (psychopathy).
• What are the characteristics of antisocial personality disorder?

  Impulsive, irresponsible, and often criminal behavior.
• What is one issue with the deviation from social norms definition?

  Cultural relativism - norms differ between cultures.
• Give an example of a behavior considered abnormal in some cultures but normal in others.

  Homosexuality - illegal in some countries, normal in others.
• What is the issue of hindsight bias in relation to social norms?

  Social norms change over time, making past definitions of abnormality questionable.
• How was homosexuality regarded in the UK until 1973?

  As a mental illness, often resulting in institutionalization.
• What is homosexuality considered now in the UK?


  A variation of normal behavior.
• What potential violation of human rights may have occurred in the past?

  Diagnosing people as abnormal based on outdated social norms.
• What argument can be made about diagnoses based on social norms?

  They may have been used as a form of social control over minority groups.
• What is the issue with relying solely on the deviation from social norms definition?

  It lacks standardization and can lead to violations of human rights.
• What is the potential motive behind diagnosing people as abnormal based on social norms?

  Social control over minority groups and exclusion from society.
• What is failure to function adequately?

  Inability to cope with everyday living.
• What are the criteria suggested by Rosenhan & Seligman for failure to function adequately?

  Personal distress, unpredictability, irrationality, observer discomfort.
• How is failure to function adequately measured?

  The Global Assessment of Functioning Scale (GAF), which rates their level of social, occupational and psychological functioning.
• Give an example of failure to function adequately.

  Depression.
• How does depression demonstrate failure to function adequately?

  Struggling to get out of bed, difficulty communicating with others.
• What is a strength of failure to function adequately?

  It considers the subjective personal experiences of the patient
• Why is the failure to function adequately definition useful?

  It can more accurately gauge if an individual is in need of support.​
• How can a behavior be both a failure to function adequately and a deviation from social norms?

  If it hinders basic functioning but aligns with an alternative lifestyle.
• Why is it difficult to ascertain if a behavior is maladaptive?

  Because it depends on the context and individual's choices.
• What is the consequence of labeling individuals who make alternative lifestyle choices as 'failing'?

  Quashing personal freedom.
• What are the six criteria suggested by Jahoda for ideal mental health?

  Resistance to stress, growth/development/self-actualisation, high self-esteem/sense of identity, autonomy, accurate perception of reality.
• What does it mean to have resistance to stress?

  Having effective coping strategies and being able to handle everyday anxiety.
• What does it mean to experience self-actualisation?

  Experiencing personal growth and reaching one's full potential.
• What does it mean to have high self-esteem and a strong sense of identity?

  Having self-respect and a positive self-concept.
• What does it mean to have autonomy?

  Being independent, self-reliant, and able to make personal decisions.