deviation from ideal mental health

• Alternatively, viewing normality versus abnormality from the perspective of deviation from ideal mental health, Jahoda proposed criteria such as absence of symptoms or distress, rationality, self-actualization, stress management, realistic worldview, self-esteem, independence, and success in work, relationships, and leisure.
• Point: One strength of the ideal mental health criterion is its comprehensive nature.

  Evidence: Jahoda's concept covers various criteria for mental health, such as symptoms as well as self-perception, providing a broad framework for assessment and discussion.

  Explain: This allows for meaningful discussions with professionals from different theoretical backgrounds, facilitating holistic understanding and evaluation of mental health.

  Link: Hence, ideal mental health offers a useful checklist for self-assessment and promotes interdisciplinary dialogue in mental health discussion.
• Point: A limitation of the ideal mental health criterion is its cultural specificity, rendering some elements less applicable across diverse cultures.

  Evidence: Concepts like self-actualization may not align with cultural values outside of Western contexts.

  Explain: Much of the world probably views this concept as self-indulgent rather than something positive.

  Link: Consequently, the ideal mental health concept encounters difficulties in cross-cultural application and may not accurately reflect mental well-being in non-Western contexts.