Examine the concepts of normality and abnormality. (22)

Abnormal Psychology

The study of behaviors, thoughts, and emotions that deviate from what is considered typical or socially acceptable

Normal Psychology

The study of typical or usual behaviors, thoughts, and emotions exhibited by individuals within a given population or society.

Statistical Infrequency (dev from the norm)

• Unusual behaviours are sometimes desirable e.g. geniuses

• Undesirable behaviour are sometimes normal e.g. depression

• Norm differs due to culture, age. Criteria are not universally applicable.

• Ethical Issues:

  • Social labeling

  • Discrimination

  • Violation of human rights

Social Deviation

• Normality defined by the standards of social behaviour.

• Variation of norms in different demographic/social groups.

• Situational norms

  • Acceptable depending on situation

• Developmental norm

  • Acceptable depending on development.

• Norms changes according to prevailing moral values e.g. Homosexuality, Divorce

• Pressure on becoming the norm.

  • Conforming to the norm without internalising it.

  • Repressed to a point where one develops a disorder.

Dysfunction and Distress

• Behaviour disrupts the ability to work and/or to conduct satisfying relationship with people.

• Not all mental disorders are accompanied by distress (anti-social personality disorder).

• Not all distress are disorders (grief).