The definitions of abnormality- AS AQA Psychology revision notes

Abnormality is something or someone that is unusual or different from the majority.

There are three definitions of abnormality:

• deviation from social norms (someone who doesn't conform)
• failure to function adequately in day to day life 
• deviation from ideal mental health

examples of deviating from the social norms:

refusing to wear clothes, not being polite, not conforming, accusing people of being demons

examples of failure to function adequately:

not being able to work in an office on a high floor for fear of heights, not being able to eat normally (eating disorder), cannot wash clothes or bathe for fear of water

examples of deviation from ideal mental health:

There are 6 main criteria of ideal mental health. these are:

• self attitudes- high self esteem
• personal growth and self actualisation- how much people develop their potential
• integration- coping with stress
• autonomy-  being independant and self regulating
• having an accurate perception of reality
• mastery of the environment- being able to love, work, adjust to…