Deviation from ideal mental health

Deviation from ideal mental health (DIMH)

This definition stands out by not defining abnormality directly, but instead attempting to define a state of ideal mental health. Deviation from these ideals would then be defined as abnormality. Jahoda introduced the first systematic approach in 1958, listing a number of characteristics she felt indicated ideal mental health. These are listed below (Vaillant, 2003):

• an individual should be in touch with their own identity and feelings
• they should be resistant to stress
• they should be focused on the…