Abnormal Psychology Unit 12

What does normal mean? Comes from the Latin norma. Means a carpenter’s square. Refers to a rule, pattern, or standard by which to measure the things a carpenter creates.

What does abnormal mean? Ab = away from Therefore, abnormal means away from normal or anything that is not normal.

Definitions of “normal” Conforming to a standard; usual, typical, or expected. Serving to establish a standard. Psychology Approximately average in any psychological trait, as intelligence, personality, or emotional adjustment. Free from any mental disorder; sane. The average or mean. The standard or type.

What does it mean to be a normal person?

Who should decide what a person has to be like in order to be described as normal?

Ways to View Normal/Abnormal Behavior Statistically Contextually Culturally

Discussion - Statistics Statistically speaking, any behavior is atypical if it is not exhibited by 68% of the people in a particular group or culture. What common behaviors would be considered abnormal if we followed this definition of abnormality? Who would suffer discrimination if this standard were enforced? What religious practices would be considered abnormal for your community? What ways of life would be abnormal? Single-parent households? Two-parent households? What ethnic groups would be considered abnormal? What styles of dress? What music preferences? What post-high school choices?

Discussion - Context Context The set of circumstances or facts that surround a particular situation, event, etc. Brainstorm behaviors that, when taken out of context, could be considered abnormal. Examples: Having a heated argument with someone. Praying aloud or chanting outside of a religious service. Dancing in excitement over getting a good grade or hearing good news.

Discussion - Culture Brainstorm historical practices that might be considered abnormal according to today’s standards of behavior. Some cultures have different social practices that may be considered abnormal to people in U.S. culture: Hissing in Japan Public displays of affection and gender, and the use of straws in Thailand.

Discussion - Culture Some cultures have different social practices that may be considered abnormal to people in U.S. culture: Hissing is a polite way to show respect for superiors in Japan. Public displays of affection between men and women in Thailand are unacceptable. Interestingly, however, men holding hands is considered a sign of friendship. Additionally, the use of straws in Thailand is considered vulgar.

Further Discussion What are the limits of tolerance? What types of cultural practices should we accept from other cultures and to what should we object?