Deviation From Social Norms AO3

Question 1

❌Why is the deviation from social norms definition of abnormality considered culturally relative?

Answer 1

The variability between social norms in different cultures means a person from one cultural group may label someone from another group as ‘abnormal’ using their own standards rather than the person’s. For instance, hearing voices is a norm in some cultures (as messages from ancestors) but is seen as a sign of abnormality in most parts of the UK. This cultural relativity makes it difficult to judge deviation from social norms consistently across different situations.

Question 2

❌ How can using deviation from social norms to define abnormality lead to unfair labelling and human rights abuses?

Answer 2

Historically, diagnoses like nymphomania (a woman’s uncontrollable or excessive sexual desire) were used to control women, while drapetomania (a supposed mental illness causing slaves to run away) was used to control black slaves. These examples show that using social norms to define abnormality can reinforce prejudice and deny individuals their basic rights and respect.

Question 3

✅ How is the deviation from social norms definition useful in clinical practice?

Answer 3

It is used to diagnose conditions like antisocial personality disorder, where key symptoms include a failure to conform to culturally acceptable ethical behaviours, such as recklessness, aggression, violating others’ rights, and deceitfulness. These behaviours are all deviations from social norms.

Question 4

✅ What are the practical benefits of the deviation from social norms definition of abnormality?

Answer 4

It helps identify behaviours that could become criminal or dangerous, such as theft, vandalism, or harassment. Recognizing these behaviours early allows authorities to intervene before they escalate, promoting public safety and reducing crime rates.