11: Behavioural Individuality and Psychological Disorders

Question 1

Behavioural Individuality

Answer 1

Behavioural individuality refers to the unique ways in which people think, feel, and behave. These differences are shaped by a complex interplay of genetic, neurobiological, environmental, and social factors. From early infancy, individuals display distinct temperaments—such as being more active, cautious, sensitive, or adaptable—which can influence how they respond to their surroundings and form relationships. As people grow, these early patterns interact with life experiences to shape personality traits, coping styles, and emotional regulation.

Question 2

Psychological Disorders

Answer 2

Psychological disorders, also referred to as mental health conditions or mental illnesses, are patterns of thoughts, feelings, or behaviours that cause significant distress or impair a person’s ability to function in daily life. These disorders can affect anyone and may vary in severity, duration, and impact across the lifespan.

Question 3

criticism of DSM-5 and ICD-11

Answer 3

Some argue that these systems can pathologise normal variations in behaviour, overlook cultural differences, or promote a one-size-fits-all model of diagnosis that fails to account for individual experience. Concerns have also been raised about over-diagnosis, stigma, and the influence of pharmaceutical industries on how disorders are defined.

Importantly, mental health must be understood within a cultural and societal context. Behaviours considered “disordered” in one cultural setting may be seen as normal or even valued in another. For example, expressions of grief, emotion, or spiritual belief may differ widely across cultures and can be misunderstood when viewed through a narrow clinical lens. Additionally, experiences of trauma, poverty, racism, and marginalisation can contribute to psychological distress and are often under-recognised in diagnostic frameworks. Professionals must therefore take care to consider the broader context of a person’s life when assessing or responding to mental health concerns, and to avoid reducing individuals to diagnostic labels.

Question 4

The Difference Between Behavioural Individuality and Psychological Disorders

Answer 4

Behavioural individuality refers to the natural variation in how people think, feel, and behave, shaped by genetics, personality, neurobiology, culture, and life experience. It includes differences in temperament, learning style, communication, and emotional expression that do not necessarily indicate a problem or impairment. In contrast, psychological disorders involve patterns of thoughts, emotions, or behaviours that cause significant distress or interfere with daily functioning. While the two can overlap—such as when a behavioural trait becomes a source of impairment—it’s important not to confuse individuality with disorder. Misinterpreting natural differences as pathology can lead to overdiagnosis, stigma, or inappropriate interventions. Recognising this distinction helps professionals support people in a way that respects diversity while still identifying when additional care may be needed.

Question 5

The Biopsychosocial Model

Answer 5

The biopsychosocial model is a holistic framework for understanding human behaviour and wellbeing by considering the interconnection of biological, psychological, and social factors.
it emphasises that health and behaviour are shaped by multiple, interacting influences.
The model consists of three core domains. The biological domain includes genetics, physical health, neurochemistry, and medical conditions that may influence behaviour or mental health. For example, chronic illness or injury may contribute to emotional distress or reduced functioning. The psychological domain focuses on cognitive patterns, emotional regulation, personality traits, and responses to stress or trauma. This includes how people interpret experiences, cope with difficulties, and make sense of their lives. The social domain considers the influence of relationships, culture, community, socioeconomic status, and access to support. Factors such as poverty, discrimination, and isolation can significantly affect wellbeing and resilience.