Psychopathology - Definitions of Abnormality

This definition of abnormality suggests any behavior which is rare or uncommon.

• Deviation from ideal mental health

• Deviation from social norms

• Failure to function adequately

• Statistical infrequency

This definition of abnormality suggests those who fail to follow the common expectations of behaviour are abnormal.

• Deviation from ideal mental health
• Deviation from social norms
• Failure to function adequately
• Statistical infrequency

This definition of abnormality suggests those whose behaviour is maladaptive to everyday living is abnormal.

• Deviation from ideal mental health
• Deviation from social norms
• Failure to function adequately
• Statistical infrequency

This definition of abnormality suggests those who do not meet particular criteria for psychological well-being are abnormal.

• Deviation from ideal mental health

• Deviation from social norms

• Failure to function adequately

• Statistical infrequency

Which is not a limitation of deviation from ideal mental health as a definition of abnormality?

• Can anyone actually achieve these criteria?

• Unlike physical health, the criteria for mental health are subjective

• Many criteria are culture-bound

• It is a negative definition of abnormality

A strength of deviation from ideal mental health as a definition of abnormality is...

• It is an abstract definition of abnormality
• It is a negative definition of abnormality
• It is a positive definition of abnormality
• It is a vague definition of abnormality

A limitation of deviation from social norms as a definition of abnormality is…

• Judgments of deviance are related to context

• Judgments of defiance are related to context

• Judgments of deviance are culturally relative

• Judgments of deviance are inconsistent

A strength of failure to function adequately as a definition of abnormality is...

• It does recognise the objective experience of the patient

• It does recognise the subjective experience of the patient

• It does recognise the objective experience of others

• It does recognise the subjective experience of others

A limitation of statistical infrequency as a definition of abnormality is...

• Common behaviours can be statistically infrequent
• Unusual behaviours can be common
• Unusual characteristics can be positive
• Unusual characteristics can be negative

A strength of statistical infrequency as a definition of abnormality is...

• It is an objective measure of abnormality

• It is a simple definition

• It is a detailed definition

• It is a positive definition of abnormality