Psychopathology- Definitions of Abnormality Flashcards
(18 cards)
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What are social norms?
Unwritten rules for how members of a social group should behave.
What is deviation from social norms?
When someone presents behaviour that doesn’t follow social norms.
Strength of deviation from social norms?
Helps classify abnormal behaviour and allows treatment; minimises harm to others.
Weakness of deviation from social norms?
Changes over time, needs constant updating, lacks reliability.
What is deviation from ideal mental health?
When someone’s behaviour does not fit with what is defined as having ideal mental health.
Name one of Jahoda’s 6 criteria
Positive self-attitude / Independence / Self-actualisation / Resistance to stress / Accurate perception of reality / Environmental mastery.
What does Jahoda’s criteria suggest?
The more a person deviates from ideal mental health, the more abnormal they are.
Strength of ideal mental health definition?
Helps set clear goals for those diagnosed as abnormal.
Weakness of ideal mental health definition?
Overly demanding and difficult to measure objectively.
What is failure to function adequately?
Struggling to cope with everyday life.
What is maladaptive behaviour?
Behaviour that is harmful or prevents effective functioning (e.g., smoking or drinking).
Strength of failure to function adequately definition?
Behaviour is observable and can be easily identified and diagnosed.
Weakness of failure to function adequately definition?
Some people cope but still have disorders; not all maladaptive behaviour is abnormal.
What is statistical infrequency?
Behaviour is considered abnormal if it is rare or statistically uncommon.
How is statistical infrequency measured?
If less than 5% of the population shows the behaviour, it’s considered abnormal.
Strength of statistical infrequency?
Easy and practical to use; less subjective.
Weakness of statistical infrequency?
Not all disorders are infrequent; doesn’t consider if behaviour is desirable.
