definitions of abnormality Flashcards
Define statistical infrequency.
Defining something as ‘abnormal’ if it is statistically unusual or rare.
Give an example of statistical infrequency related to IQ.
The average IQ is 100; most people score between 70 and 115. Those scoring below 70 are considered unusual and may be diagnosed with intellectual disability disorder.
Define deviation from social norms.
When a person behaves in a way that is different from what society considers acceptable.
Give an example of deviation from social norms.
An example is antisocial personality disorder, where a person is impulsive, aggressive, and irresponsible, deviating from cultural norms.
Define failure to function adequately.
When a person can no longer cope with the demands of everyday life.
Give an example of failure to function adequately.
An individual with an intellectual disability disorder may fail to function adequately because they cannot perform daily tasks.
Define deviation from ideal mental health.
Not meeting the criteria for optimal mental health.
Give 3 examples of Jahoda’s criteria for ideal mental health.
~ Having no symptoms of distress
~ Being rational and perceiving ourselves accurately
~ Having good self-esteem and being independent
What is a real-world application of statistical infrequency?
~ Assessing the severity of an individual’s symptoms in clinical practice.
~ For example the Beck Depression Inventory - a score of 30+ indicates severe depression.
What is a limitation of statistical infrequency?
Infrequent characteristics can be positive as well as negative.
What is a benefit of using statistical infrequency?
People who have very low IQs may benefit from support and resources.
What is a real-world application of deviation from social norms?
It is used in clinical practice to define antisocial personality disorder.
What is a limitation of deviation from social norms?
Norms vary between cultures and situations, making it difficult to consistently define abnormality.
How does failure to function adequately represent a threshold for help?
It indicates a point at which people may need professional help.
What are the limitations of failure to function?
It can be hard to say when someone is genuinely failing or choosing to deviate from norms.
What is a failure to function that may not be abnormal?
Failing to cope for a limited time after bereavement.
What is a comprehensive definition of ideal mental health?
Jahoda’s concept includes a range of criteria for distinguishing mental health from mental disorder.
What are the limitations of ideal mental health criteria?
They are not equally applicable across cultures.
What is a real-world application of statistical infrequency?
Assessing the severity of an individual’s symptoms.
What is a limitation of statistical infrequency?
Infrequent characteristics can be positive as well as negative.
What is a benefit of using statistical infrequency?
People who have very low IQs may benefit from support and resources.
What is a real-world application of deviation from social norms?
It is used in clinical practice to define antisocial personality disorder.
What is a limitation of deviation from social norms?
Norms vary between cultures and situations, making it difficult to consistently define abnormality.
How does failure to function adequately represent a threshold for help?
It indicates a point at which people may need professional help.
