Deviation from ideal mental health DEFINING ABNORMALITY

Learning Objectives  To outline the “deviation from ideal mental health” definition of abnormality  To explain the limitations of this definition  To answer an exam question on this definition

So far…  We have looked at:  Deviation from social norms – breaking “social rules” so behaving in a way that isn’t acceptable in society  Failure to function adequately – can’t “function” and cope with every day life – i.e. can’t hold down a job or look after self Next is…

Deviation from ideal mental health  Jahoda (1958) identified 6 criteria that are necessary for ‘ideal’ mental health  She said that if you didn’t possess these you were abnormal  You are “deviating” (different) from ideal mental health

Jahoda  Using the hand-out, outline the 6 different characteristics that Jahoda believed demonstrated “ideal mental health”  Provide examples to back up the descriptions  LIMITATIONS – cut and stick into correct order – read through and complete exam question

Limitations of this explanation  Who defines ideal mental health? – not fair to judge on these 6 criteria  The difficulty of self-actualisation – hardly anyone fulfils full potential  Possible benefits of stress – some work better under stress  Cultural issues – mainly applies to western cultures