Definitions of Abnormality
- Created by: megank01
- Created on: 08-05-19 09:49
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- Definitions of Abnormality
- Statistical Infrequency
- If we can define what is most common or 'normal' then we also have an idea of what is abnormal.
- Mean, median and mode.
- The abnormal ratings are those at either end of the graph.
- Deviation from Social Norms
- Norms created by a group of people.
- In a society there are standards of acceptable behaviour that are set by the social group and adhered to by those socialised into that group.
- Anyone who deviates from these social norms is classed as abnormal.
- Some rules about unacceptable behaviour are implicit whereas others are policed by laws.
- Deviation from Ideal Mental Health
- Marie Jahoda pointed out that we define physical illness in part by looking at the absence of signs of physical health.
- Self attitudes, self-actualisation, integration, autonomy, accurate perception of reality and mastery of the environment.
- The absence of these criteria indicated abnormality and potential mental disorder.
- Failure to Function Adequately
- The 'functioning' refers to just going about day-to-day life such as eating, washing your clothes and being able to communicate.
- Not functioning adequately causes distress and suffering for the individual and may cause distress to others.
- There may be situations where a person is coping with everyday life in a 'normal way' - they may just like living in unwashed clothes.
- Statistical Infrequency
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