PSYCHOPATHOLOGY - Statistical Infrequency

Question 1

Statistical infrequency definition

Answer 1

When an individual possesses a less common characteristic than most of the population and as a result are considered abnormal

Question 2

Statistical infrequency A01

Answer 2

• Any relatively unusual behaviour can be thought of as abnormal
• When looking at statistics, the number of people who display unusual behaviour can be rare
• The average IQ score is 100 so scores that are significantly higher than or lower than 100 are statistically infrequent
• Approximately 65% of the population has an IQ between 85-115
• 95% of the population has an average IQ score
• 2.5% of the population has an IQ score above 130
• 2.5% of the population has an IQ score below 70
• Data gained from IQ score testing can be displayed in a Normal Distribution Curve

Question 3

What is the average IQ score?

Answer 3

100

Question 4

What percentage of the population has an average IQ score?

Answer 4

95%

Question 5

What percentage of the population has an IQ score above 130?

Answer 5

2.5%

Question 6

What percentage of the population has an IQ score of below 70?

Answer 6

2.5%

Question 7

How can data gained from IQ testing be displayed?

Answer 7

data can be displayed in a Normal Distribution Curve

Question 8

What are the advantages of statistical infrequency as a definition of abnormality?

Answer 8

1) An advantage of statistical infrequency is that to have an IQ score over 130 is just as unusual or statistically infrequent as having an IQ score below 70. However, being very intelligent with an IQ score over 130 is not a negative behaviour, but is actually quite positive and desirable. Just because a behaviour is statistically infrequent does not mean that the person is abnormal and requires treatment. Statistical infrequency can be a good thing.

2) An advantage of statistical infrequency is that judgements are based on objective, scientific and unbiased data that can help indicate abnormality and normality, (for example the IQ scores). The results from these tests can indicate whether someone needs psychological help and assistance e.g. an IQ score below 70 could indicate mental disability.

Question 9

What are the disadvantages of statistical infrequency?

Answer 9

1) A disadvantage of statistical infrequency is that it involves labelling some people as abnormal, and this is not beneficial. A person with a low IQ of 70 might be labelled in a negative manner by other members of society, and this could have a negative effect upon them and how they view themselves. It could affect self confidence and self esteem and lead to further problems.

2) Statistical infrequency can be criticised because there seems to be a subjective cut off point between statistical infrequency (abnormality) and normality. We need to decide the dividing line between where normality and abnormality starts and ends, and this is very subjective, for instance an IQ of 70 is abnormal and statistically infrequent, but an IQ score of 71 is normal? The cut off point can be questioned.