definitions of abnormality Flashcards
(18 cards)
What is meant by statistical infrequency in defining abnormality?
It defines abnormality based on how statistically rare a trait or behaviour is in the general population.
How is normal distribution used to assess abnormality?
Behaviours at the extreme ends of a normal distribution curve (e.g., very high or low IQ) are considered abnormal.
How is statistical infrequency used in diagnosis?
It’s used to diagnose conditions like intellectual disability disorder (e.g., IQ below 70).
What does deviation from social norms mean?
Behaviour is considered abnormal if it deviates from accepted social or cultural expectations.
How do social norms vary?
They are influenced by culture and historical context (e.g., homosexuality used to be seen as abnormal).
Give a strength of statistical infrequency.
Real-world application—used in clinical diagnosis.
What is one limitation of statistical infrequency?
Unusual traits like high IQ are not negative, so rarity doesn’t always mean abnormality.
Give a strength of deviation from social norms.
Helps diagnose conditions like antisocial personality disorder.
What is a limitation of deviation from social norms?
Cultural and situational differences make it unreliable across societies.
What does failure to function adequately mean?
It’s defined as an inability to cope with everyday life (e.g., poor hygiene, nutrition, relationships).
What are signs of failing to function?
Includes distress, irrationality, unpredictability, and danger to self or others (Rosenhan & Seligman).
What is an example of failure to function?
Intellectual disability disorder: low IQ and inability to manage daily life.
What does deviation from ideal mental health involve?
Focuses on what makes a person psychologically healthy, based on Jahoda’s criteria.
List 3 of Jahoda’s criteria for ideal mental health.
Positive self-attitude, autonomy, resistance to stress.
What is one strength of failure to function adequately?
Allows for a clear threshold for when to seek help—practical application.
What is a limitation of the failure to function definition?
It may lead to discrimination against nonconformist lifestyles.
What is a strength of ideal mental health?
It provides a holistic view of mental wellness with a broad range of criteria.
What is a limitation of Jahoda’s criteria?
The standards are unrealistically high, making most people seem abnormal.
