defining abnormality
Overview
This lesson explores the complex and often debated topic of defining abnormality in psychology. We will examine various approaches and criteria used to distinguish between normal and abnormal behaviour, highlighting their strengths and limitations. Understanding these definitions is crucial for diagnosing mental health conditions and developing appropriate interventions.
Introduction to Defining Abnormality
Defining abnormality is a fundamental challenge in psychology, as there is no single, universally accepted definition. What one person considers 'normal' another might view as 'abnormal'. This lesson explores various approaches, each with its own merits and drawbacks. The lack of a clear definition ...
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Key Concepts
- Abnormality: Behaviour, thoughts, or feelings that deviate significantly from typical or expected patterns, often causing distress or impairment.
- Statistical Infrequency: Defining abnormality based on how rare a behaviour or characteristic is within a given population.
- Deviation from Social Norms: Defining abnormality based on behaviour that violates unwritten rules or expectations of a society or culture.
- Failure to Function Adequately: Defining abnormality based on an individual's inability to cope with the demands of everyday life.
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Exam Tips
- →When asked to 'define abnormality', ensure you discuss at least two different approaches (e.g., statistical infrequency and deviation from social norms) and critically evaluate each one with clear strengths and limitations.
- →Always provide specific examples to illustrate each definition. For instance, for statistical infrequency, mention IQ scores. For deviation from social norms, discuss cultural variations in dress or behaviour.
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