Definitions of Abnormality Flashcards
(16 cards)
Cultural relativism
The view that behaviour cannot be judged properly unless it is viewed in the context of the culture in which it originates.
Deviation from social norms
Abnormal behaviour is seen as a deviation from unstated rules and is considered abnormal.
DSM (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of mental Disorders)
A list of mental disorders used to diagnose mental disorders. For each disorder, a list of clinical characteristics is given.
Statistical infrequency
Abnormality is defined as behaviour that is extremely rare, i.e., any behaviour that is found in very few people is regarded as abnormal.
Some abnormal behaviours are desirable (AO3 Statistical infrequency)
Very few people have an IQ over 150, but this abnormality is desirable, not undesirable. Equally, there are some ‘normal’ behaviours that are undesirable. Eg experiencing depression is relatively common.
The cut-off point is subjective (AO3 Statistical infrequency) (limitation)
Deciding where to separate normality from abnormality. Eg, one of the symptoms of depression is ‘difficulty sleeping’. Some may think abnormal sleep is less than 6 hours a night, others may think the cut-off should be 5 hours.
Deviation from ideal mental health
Abnormality is defined in terms of mental health, behaviours that are associated with competence and happiness. Ideal mental health includes a positive attitude towards the self, resistance to stress, and an accurate perception of reality.
Failure to Function Adequately
People’s lives are judged on their ability to go about daily life. If they can’t do this and are also experiencing distress (or others are distressed by their behaviour), then it is considered a sign of abnormality.
Cultural relativism (AO3 Statistical infrequency)
An issue is that behaviours statistically infrequent in one culture may be statistically more frequent in another. Eg. One symptom of schizophrenia is claiming to hear voices, which is common in some cultures. This demonstrates that there are no universal standards for labelling a behaviour as abnormal.
Susceptible to abuse (AO3 Deviation from social norms) limitation
What is socially acceptable now may not have been socially acceptable 50 years ago. Eg, homosexuality was once seen as a disorder, but today it is accepted in most societies. This suggests defining abnormality based on social norms could reflect prevailing attitudes and not true abnormality.
Deviance is related to context and degree (AO3 Deviation from social norms) limitation
Judgements of deviation are often related to the context of behaviour. Eg. A person wearing a bikini on a beach is normal, but in a classroom, it would be seen as abnormal. This shows social deviance alone cannot define abnormality, as context and degree must be considered.
Failure to function adequately - Who judges? (PEEL)
P: There are discussions about who judges whether someone is failing to function adequately. E: A person experiencing personal distress may recognise that they’re not coping and seek help. However, they may also be content and unaware of their difficulties. L: Therefore, the judgment is subjective and depends on who is making it.
Jahoda (1958) - Deviation to ideal mental health
Jahoda suggested we define mental health like we define physical health: by the absence of signs of good mental health. She reviewed what others had written about good mental health, identifying behaviours that enable happiness.
Categories that Jahoda identified:
- Self-attitudes: High self-esteem and strong sense of identity. 2. Personal growth and self-actualisation: Developing full capabilities. 3. Integration: Ability to cope with stress. 4. Autonomy: Independence and self-regulation. 5. Accurate perception of reality. 6. Mastery of the environment: Ability to love, function at work, and adjust.
One strength of Jahoda’s definition (AO3)
Jahoda’s definition is positive and holistic. It focuses on positive behaviours, considers the whole person, and includes factors that affect health and well-being. L: This makes the deviation from ideal mental health definition comprehensive, covering a broad range of criteria.
One weakness of the deviation from ideal mental health.
the unrealistic criteria proposed by Jahoda.
3 Points
There are times when everyone will experience stress and negativity, e.g, when grieving following the death of a loved one.
This definition would classify these people as abnormal, irrespective of the circumstances which are outside their control.
With the high standards set by these criteria, it must also be questioned on how many need to be absent for diagnosis to occur.
