Deviation from ideal mental health

• Deviation from ideal mental health

  • Deviation from ideal mental health is different because we look at abnormality in terms of mental health, not statistics or societal rules
  • If we do not conform to all those categories, we are not in a state of ideal mental health (we are deviated from it)
• Jahoda‘s criteria for ideal mental health

  no symptoms of distress

  trying to reach self actualisation

  can cope with stress

  having a realistic view of the world
• A comprehensive definition

  Jahoda created a checklist for ideal mental health, which can be improved through guided therapy. These categories help us know when to seek help if we don't meet them.
• May be culture bound

  Understanding ideal mental health across cultures can be challenging. Jahoda's criteria, such as self-actualization, are more US and Europe-centric, which may not align with all cultural viewpoints.