Chapter 1

What is Abnormal Psychology?

• The scientific study of behavioral and mental disorders.

• Goals: Describe, explain, predict, and modify distressing emotions, thoughts, and behaviors.

• Focuses on both pathology and human resilience.

What are Mental Disorders and How Common Are They?

• According to DSM-5, mental disorders are psychobiological dysfunctions causing significant distress or impairment, not normal responses to stress.

• Prevalence:

  • ~25% of U.S. adults experience a mental disorder each year.

  • ~6% experience a serious mental illness.

What Societal Factors Affect Definitions of Abnormality?

• Influenced by cultural context and sociopolitical factors.

• Standards for “normal” behavior depend on:

  • Cultural values and traditions

  • Religion, social norms, and economic conditions

  • Historical or political climate

Why is it Important to Confront the Stigma Associated with Mental Illness?

• Stigma often stems from misinformation, such as the belief that mentally ill individuals are violent or incompetent.

• Leads to discrimination, social exclusion, and reluctance to seek treatment.

• Reducing stigma encourages acceptance and recovery.

How Have Explanations of Abnormal Behavior Changed Over Time?

• Prehistoric: Evil spirits → treated with trephining or exorcism.

• Greco-Roman era: Rational ideas emerged; Hippocrates linked illness to brain dysfunction.

• Middle Ages: Return to supernatural views (witchcraft and demonic possession).

• Renaissance to Enlightenment: Rise of humanism and scientific reasoning.

• Modern era: Biological, psychological, and social factors recognized as interacting causes.

What Were Early Explanations for the Causes of Mental Disorders?

Biological Viewpoint:

• Mental illness has physical causes (e.g., brain dysfunction, genetics).

• Pioneers: Griesinger and Kraepelin.

Psychological Viewpoint:

• Mental illness results from emotional distress or trauma.

• Contributors: Mesmer, Breuer, Freud.

Both views shaped today’s biopsychosocial model.

What Are Some Contemporary Trends in Abnormal Psychology?

Multicultural Psychology:

• Recognizes culture, race, and gender as key to understanding behavior.

Positive Psychology:

• Focuses on strengths, resilience, and well-being.

Recovery Movement:

• Promotes hope, empowerment, and living meaningfully despite illness.

Drug Revolution:

• Psychotropic medications (e.g., lithium, chlorpromazine) reduced hospitalization.

Managed Health Care:

• Emphasizes cost control and evidence-based treatment.

Technology-Assisted Therapy:

• Includes telehealth, apps, and virtual reality for mental health support.