Disorders

Week 6: What is 'Normal'?,

normality

A context-dependent judgement about whether behaviour is usual, accepted and compatible with effective functioning.

normal behaviour

Behaviour that is accepted within a particular society or situation and helps a person function effectively.

abnormal behaviour

Behaviour that is atypical, conflicts with expectations or is linked with disteess or impaired functioning.

adaptive behaviour

Age-appropriate everyday behaviour that helps a person meet demands, function independently and achieve goals.

maladaptive behaviour

An unhelpful response that may reduce discomfort briefly but interferes with wellbeing, adjustment or goals over time.

What is an example of normality?

Showing up for work ten minutes early.

What is an example of normal behaviour?

Introducing yourself when speaking to new people.

What is an example of abnormal behaviour?

An adult throwing a tantrum on the floor in public over a small incident.

What is an example of adaptive behaviour?

Learning to ask permission in a school setting, e.g. “Can I please go to the bathroom?”

What is an example of maladaptive behaviour?

Skipping events due to avoid anxiety

What behaviour/s is this? A 3 year old throwing a tantrum over their parents not purchasing a toy for them.

normality

What are the four core elements of the six approaches to normality

Context, frequency, functioning, health

What are the six approaches to normality

situational, sociocultural, historical, statistical, functional, medical