Deviation from Social Norms

Define deviation from social norms

Standards of acceptable behaviour that are set by a particular social group where deviation from these standards is considered abnormal.
Some rules about unacceptable behaviour are implicit whereas others are policed by laws.

What is antisocial personality disorder and it's traits?

An absence of prosocial standards associated with failure to conform to lawful, culturally normative, ethical behaviour.

Traits: -Impulsive behaviour -Aggressive behaviour -Irresponsiblity

Limitation - Social Norms vary over time

E.g: Until recently, homosexuality was considered to be a mental disorder. However, society's norms have changed, and homosexuality is now considered to be socially acceptable.

Exp: This matters because it means that the deviation from social norms definition is based on society's attitudes, which does not seem an appropriate way of defining abnormality.

Limitation - Cultural Relativism

E.g. Hearing voices or hallucinations. African and Asian cultures - seen as positive and normal - sign of spirituality and a strong connection in ancestors Western terms - considered abnormal and a symptom of schizophrenia.

Exp: This matters because there are no universal standards when it comes to defining abnormality - what may be abnormal in one culture may be completely normal in another.

Strength - Real world Application

E.g: Deviations from social norms play a part in diagnosing disorders such as Antisocial personality disorder and schizotypal personality disorder. These disorders' defining characteristics are individuals not conforming to what is viewed as lawful, culturally normative or ethical behaviour. These are all deviations from social norms.

Exp: Shows the definition has practical clinical value.