Definitions of abnormality

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  • Definitions of Abnormality
    • Statistical infrequency
      • a persons behaviour is statistically unusual or rare
      • example: having an IQ less than 70 only occurs for a very small number of the population
      • objective
        • mathematical approach makes it clear and suffers no bias
    • Deviation from ideal mental health
      • Jahoda's criteria
        • accurate perception of reality
        • autonomy (self reliance)
        • self-actualisation
        • positive attitude towards the self
      • for normality Jahoda's criteria needs to be filled
      • high standards/feasibility
    • Failure to function
      • when an individual isn't able to cope with everyday life
      • defined by Rosenhan and Seligman
        • irrationality
        • observer discomfort
        • complete distress
      • judgemental and harsh
        • e.g. someone whose grieving suddenly are likely to display these behaviours
          • however they aren't deemed abnormal as it's insensitive and an expected response
  • Doesn't consider desirable behaviours
    • very high intelligence is statistically rare but isn't classed as abnormal
    • Statistical infrequency
      • a persons behaviour is statistically unusual or rare
      • example: having an IQ less than 70 only occurs for a very small number of the population
      • objective
        • mathematical approach makes it clear and suffers no bias
  • it's practically impossible to achieve entire criteria.
    • makes most of population abnormal
    • high standards/feasibility
  • so much variation as to whats acceptable across cultures
    • not clear what is actually abnormal
    • culture dependent

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