definitions of abnormalities Flashcards
(37 cards)
define statistical infrequency
- a behaviour is seen as abnormal if it is statistically uncommon, we do not across it often
- therefore it is how often we come across a particular characteristic and if it is infrequent, it can be considered abnormal
What is the definition of statistical infrequency in the context of abnormal behavior?
Statistical infrequency defines abnormal behavior as any behavior that is unusual or not commonly observed in the population.
How does the normal distribution relate to intelligence scores?
In a normal distribution, most people’s intelligence scores cluster around the average, with fewer individuals scoring significantly above or below that average.
What is the average IQ set at in the normal distribution model?
The average IQ is set at 100.
What percentage of people typically have an IQ score between 85 and 115?
Approximately 68% of people have an IQ score in the range from 85 to 115.
What is considered abnormal in terms of IQ scores according to the text?
Scores below 70 are considered very unusual or abnormal and may lead to a diagnosis of intellectual disability disorder.
What does deviation from social norms imply?
Deviation from social norms implies that an individual’s behavior is different from what is expected or accepted in society.
How are social norms defined?
Social norms are defined by the culture we live in and can vary between different generations and cultures.
Give an example of behavior that has been considered abnormal due to social norms.
Homosexuality was historically considered abnormal in some cultures and continues to be viewed as abnormal and illegal in certain societies.
What is antisocial personality disorder characterized by?
Antisocial personality disorder is characterized by impulsive, aggressive, and irresponsible behavior.
What is a key symptom of antisocial personality disorder according to the DSM-5?
A key symptom is the absence of prosocial internal standards and failure to conform to lawful and culturally normative ethical behavior.
True or False: Psychopathic behavior is considered normal across all cultures.
False.
Fill in the blank: According to the statistical definition, any relatively usual behavior or characteristic can be thought of as _______.
[normal]
What is the impact of cultural differences on the definition of abnormal behavior?
Cultural differences can lead to varying definitions of what is considered abnormal behavior.
What is described as a failure to function adequately?
A person may cross the line between normal and ‘abnormal’ when they can no longer cope with the demands of everyday life.
What are some indicators that someone is failing to function adequately?
- Unable to maintain basic standards of nutrition and hygiene
- Cannot hold down a job
- Cannot maintain relationships with people around them
According to Rosenhan and Seligman, when is a person not coping?
- No longer conforms to standard interpersonal rules
- Experiences severe personal distress
- Behavior becomes irrational or dangerous to themselves or others
What is an example of a condition that requires both low IQ and failure to function adequately for diagnosis?
Intellectual disability disorder
What does deviation from ideal mental health focus on?
It considers what makes anyone normal, rather than what makes someone abnormal.
What criteria did Marie Jahoda suggest for good mental health?
- No symptoms or distress
- Rational and accurate self-perception
- Self-actualisation
- Ability to cope with stress
- Realistic view of the world
- Good self-esteem and lack of guilt
- Independence from others
- Ability to work, love, and enjoy leisure
How might failure to function adequately overlap with deviation from ideal mental health?
Inability to keep a job can be seen as both a failure to cope with work pressures and as a deviation from the ideal of successfully working.
