Definitions

Question 1

What is deviation from social norms?

Answer 1

A social norm is a rule or behaviour based on moral standards, when a person behaves in a way that is DIFFERENT from what we expect this would be classed as ABNORMAL.

E.G. Someone with OCD would wash their hands multiple times a day in fear of germs but this isn’t FITTING in with what we would usually expect from society.

Question 2

What is failure to function adequately?

Answer 2

An individual BEHAVIOUR will INTERFERE in their functioning and so they can’t meet the demands of everyday life.

The more signs that indicate failure to function adequately we have, the more abnormal we would be.

E.G someone with depression may not do things they used to do before, trouble getting out of bed or going to work interferes with their functioning.

Question 3

What are the signs of failure to function?

Answer 3

• Don’t conform to interpersonal rules e.g. personal space
• Experience personal distress
• Irrational/dangerous behaviours
• Causes observer discomfort.

Question 4

What is statistical infrequency?

Answer 4

Any behaviour that is statistically rare is ‘abnormal’ (more than 2 standard deviations from the mean)

E.G average IQ is 100, most people have between 85-115. Score below 70 is seen as statistically rare and can be diagnosed with mental retardation.

Question 5

What is deviation from ideal mental health?

Answer 5

Jahoda sets our criteria for mental health. Anyone missing 1 or more would be classed as ABNORMAL.

1. No distress symptoms
2. We are rational and have an accurate self perception
3. We can self actualise
4. We can cope with stress
5. We have a realistic view of the world
6. We have good self esteem and lack guilt
7. We are independent
8. We can successfully work love and enjoy our leisure.