normality Flashcards
(10 cards)
Socio-cultural
What a particular society or culture views as acceptable.
Eg. In some cultures, loud crying and wailing at the funeral of a stranger is expected and considered normal, whereas in other cultures it would be considered abnormal.
Functional
how effectively an individual is able to do what is expected in everyday life, taking into account the adaptiveness of behaviour and how it affects the well being of the individual or the social group
Eg. A person being able to feed and clothe themselves and go to work each day would be considered normal. Staying in bed all day, not eating or talking to anyone would not be considered abnormal
Historical
As many behaviours evolve and change over time, the definition of normal behaviour involves an examination of the customs, habits and traditions within a particular society or culture to identify what is viewed as acceptable during that particular era
Eg. In many western societies prior to the 20th century, use of punishment in homes and in schools was considered normal, but in many western societies and cultures today, it is considered abnormal
Medical
in terms of health and its underlying physiological causes.
Eg. People who are ‘healthy’ are considered normal. Any person is considered abnormal if they have a diagnosable illness, disease or disorder such as excessive anxiety or schizophrenia.
Statistical
Conclusions about normality are made on the basis of an analysis of numerical data and calculations as to the way most people behave.
Eg. If you laughed when a loved one passed away, this would be considered abnormal as very few people do this.
Situational
related to the context (location) that are used to determine whether a behaviour is typical or acceptable within that context
Eg. It would be abnormal to tackle someone at a workplace but normal on a sports field.
typical
what is acceptable or what can be expected to happen in most circumstances. In a clinical setting, it is a condition that does not require treatment or assistance.
Atypical
behaviours that are statistically unusual or not socially approved, cause distress to the person or interfere with their ability to function
Adaptive
behaviours that allow you to meet the demands of everyday living
Maladaptive
behaviours that prevent you from meeting the demands of everyday living (can be potentially harmful, to the individual or those around the individual.)
