general psychology Firouz meroei milan Abnormality 1

Looking at Abnormality Definitions and History of Abnormal Psychology

How do we determine what is abnormal behavior? In one situation, behaviors may seem normal and in others abnormal. Context is key: Whether or not a behavior is abnormal can only be determined through a consideration of the context in which it occurs. What about function?

Standards for what is normal and abnormal Cultural relativism Unusualness of behavior Discomfort of the person exhibiting the behavior Mental illness Maladaptiveness

Standard 1: Cultural Relativism No universal standards or rules for labeling a behavior as abnormal. Instead, behaviors can only be abnormal relative to cultural norms (culturally-sanctioned behaviors). Culture: Ethnicity, gender, sexuality, etc. Limitations of this approach.

Standard 2: Unusualness Is the behavior rare? (Depends in part on the norms for that behavior in a culture.) Just because a behavior is rare does not mean it is problematic. Non-rare behaviors may also be abnormal in one situation and not in another.

Standard 3: Discomfort Proponents of this view argue that a behavior is only abnormal if the individual suffers as a result of the behavior(s) and wishes to be rid of them. Some therapists object to the subjective discomfort criterion because people are not always aware of problems that their behavior may create for themselves or others. Inconsistent with newer, acceptance-based approaches.

Standard 4: Mental Illness Is the behavior caused by an identifiable disease? There is no medical test that identifies this process if it does exist. Causality of brain dysfunction in abnormal behavior (e.g., PTSD).

Standard 5: Maladaptiveness Dysfunction- Does the behavior prevent normal daily functioning? Distress- Does the person suffer distress? Deviance- Is the behavior highly unusual?

Function of Behavior In understanding “maladaptive behavior,” it is important to also consider the function of the behavior. Similar behaviors may serve different functions depending upon the person. What is maladaptive in one context may not be in another.

Modern Perspectives Classification systems using objective criteria and definitions, along with the discovery of syphilis as the cause of general paresis, gave credence to biological factors as a cause of abnormality. Even in modern times, psychology has a history of providing cruel and inhumane treatment.

Modern Perspectives, continued Psychoanalytic perspective focused on the role of the unconscious Behaviorism examined the role of reinforcement and punishment in determining behavior Cognitive approach recognized that how people think about their world determines their emotions and behaviors