Definitions of Abnormality: Failure to Function Deviation from Ideal Mental health You do not need to know these for the exam. You do need to know these for lesson 1 to help with evaluation. Home Learning For lesson 1

Failure to function adequately People with psychological disorders often experience considerable suffering and distress and a general inability to cope with everyday activities.

Failure to Function Adequately Under this definition, a person is considered abnormal if they are unable to cope with the demands of everyday life. They may be unable to perform the behaviours necessary for day-to-day living e.g. self-care, hold down a job, interact meaningfully with others, make themselves understood etc.

Failure to Function Adequately Rosenhan & Seligman (1989) suggest the following characteristics define failing to function: – Suffering – Maladaptiveness (danger to self) – Vividness & unconventionality (stands out) – Unpredictability & loss of control – Irrationality/incomprehensibility – Causes observer discomfort – Violates moral/social standards

Deviation from Ideal Mental health This definition changed the way people look at mental health. Marie Jarod (1958) stated that we define physical illness by looking at what is different from ideal physical health: i.e. correct temperature, correct blood pressure. Therefore, we should do this for mental health as well Focuses on what an ideal mental state is and outlines the major criteria for optimal living, promoting psychological health and wellbeing. Under this definition, rather than defining what is abnormal, we define what is normal/ideal and anything that deviates from this is regarded as abnormal

Deviation from Ideal Mental Health This definition requires us to decide on the characteristics we consider necessary to mental health Psychologists vary, but usual characteristics include: – Positive view of the self – Capability for growth and development – Autonomy and independence – Accurate perception of reality – Positive friendships and relationships – Environmental mastery – able to meet the varying demands of day-to-day situations