Introductory Psychology Concepts Abnormal Psychology © 2011 The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc.

Introductory Psychology Concepts: Abnormal Psychology Abnormal Psychology: Defining the Study of Abnormal Behavior Actions, thoughts, and feelings that cause people to experience distress and prevent functioning in daily lives In extreme cases, persons may become harmful to themselves or others Photo: Smith pg528

Introductory Psychology Concepts: Abnormal Psychology Abnormal Psychology: What is “abnormal”? Three criteria—distress, dysfunction, and deviance—seem to govern decisions about abnormality. Dysfunctional for person or society Distressing to self or others Judgment of abnormality Photo: Smith pg528 Deviant: violates social norms

Introductory Psychology Concepts: Abnormal Psychology Psychological Perspective: Understanding Abnormal Behavior in Terms of Psychological Events Behavior is due to underlying issues. Stems from childhood conflicts over opposing wishes regarding sex and aggression. If conflicts are not resolved they can be buried in the unconscious, which can bring about abnormal behavior in adulthood. This view was held most famously by Freud.

Introductory Psychology Concepts: Abnormal Psychology Behavioral Perspective: Understanding Abnormal Behavior in Terms of the Principles of Learning All behavior is merely a response to various stimuli, and these responses have been learned through past experience. Abnormal behavior occurs because a person has learned abnormal behavior.

Introductory Psychology Concepts: Abnormal Psychology Neuroscience Perspective: Understanding Abnormal Behavior in Terms of Biology Behavior is due to underlying issues. The root cause is found in a physical examination of the individual, which is why we use terms like mental “illness” and mental “hospitals”. Examination may reveal a hormonal imbalance, a chemical deficiency, or a brain injury causing the abnormal behavior.

Introductory Psychology Concepts: Abnormal Psychology Cognitive Perspective: Understanding Abnormal Behavior in Terms of Cognitive Events Behavior is a result of factors that are within an individual’s control. People’s cognition, their thoughts and beliefs, are a central component of abnormal behavior.

Introductory Psychology Concepts: Abnormal Psychology Group Perspective: Understanding Abnormal Behavior in Terms of the Effects of Groups on Abnormal Behavior. People’s behavior is shaped by the kind of family group, society, and culture in which they live. One’s relationships with others can support or cause abnormal behaviors. Daily interactions that cause stress and conflict can also promote and maintain abnormal behaviors.