Definitions of abnormality

Definitions of abnormality

1. Definition 3: Deviation from ideal mental health

   • Abnormality is seen as deviating from an ideal of positive mental health.
   • Limitiations
     • Most can't meet all the criteria
       • How many criteria do you have to lack to be abnormal?
     • Cultural relativism
       • The criteria for ideal mental health are culture bound
   • Marie Jahoda (1958)
     • Identified six criteria for idea mental health
       • Self-attitudes: having high self-esteem and strong sense of identity
       • Personal growth and self-actualisation
       • Integration: being able to cope with stressful situations
       • Autonomy: being independent and self-regulating
       • Having an accurate perception of reality
       • Mastery of the environment

2. Definition 1: Deviation from social norms

   • Abnormal behaviour is seen as a deviation from implicit rules about how one 'ought' to behave. Anything that violates these rules is considered abnormal.
   • Limitations
     • Cultural relativism
       • Social norms are defined by culture
     • Susceptible to abuse

3. Definition 2: Failure to function adequately

   • By using practical criteria of adequate functioning, mentally healthy people are judged as being able to operate within certain acceptable limits. If abnormal behaviour interferes with daily functioning, it may, according to these criteria, be considered abnormal.
   • Limitations
     • Some behaviour, although appearing maladaptive, can actually be adaptive and functional for the individual
     • Cultural relativism
       • There are different ideas of what is 'failure to function adequately'