Definitions of abnormality

Definitions of abnormality

1. Statisitical infrequency 

Abnormality is defined as those behaviours that are extremely rare i.e any behaviour that is found in very few people is regarded as abnormal. example: Fear of dogs on a rating scale of 1 to 10 where 1 is no fearand 10 is panic. We would expect a figure of 4,5,6 or 7- any ratings at either end would be classed as abnormal.

2. Deviation from social norms

Abnormal behaviour is seen as deviation from unstated rules about how one ought to behave. Anything that violates those rules is considered abnormal. example: Homosexuality was classified as…