Deviation from Ideal Mental

• The criteria outlined by Jahoda for abnormality are

  1. Resistance to stress
  2. Positive self attitudes and esteem
  3. Self actualisation
  4. Autonomy
  5. Environmental Mastery
  6. Realistic view of the world
  7. Rational perception
• Jahoda stated that if you don't meet 2 of these criteria you are abnormal.
• Jahoda's criteria suggests that these criteria are what deem us psychologically healthy.
• AO3

  :) - Positive approach

  Jahoda takes a positive approach to explaining abnormality, taking a comprehensive stance using a range of criteria.

  This results in all the individual's experiences being taken into account where they can meaningfully discuss their mental health.

  This results in a diverse criteria which both we individually, and health professionals can use to analyse mental health.

  This increases the validity of the definition.
• AO3

  :( - Feasibility

  Jahoda outlines her 7 criteria but states that deviations from just 2, result in abnormality.

  This sets impossibly high standards for individuals to meet, which takes a negative stance on the definition.

  This may also be considered socially sensitive as if an individual is failing to meet 2 criteria, and they're deemed abnormal, this may make them feel distressed and victimised by the criteria.

  This reduces the validity of the explanation.
• AO3

  :( - Ethnocentric

  Jahoda's criteria are based on Western ideals and therefore may not be equally applicable to other cultures.

  For example her criteria of autonomy may not be generalisable to collectivist cultures as in places such as Japan, individuals work together and rely on one another as opposed to working independently.

  According to Jahoda this would make them abnormal but this is their norm.

  Therefore, her criteria is based an imposed etic and therefore lacks population validity.