Definitions of Abnormality

psychopathy is concerned with the study of psychological disorders

Statistical Infrequency: occurs when an individual has a less common characteristic

eg. average IQ is 100, only 2% have IQ score below 70.

Steps for clinical diagnosis of statistical infrequency:

1. assess individuals characteristics

2. compare with statistical data

3. determine if the characteristic is infrequent

4. evaluate severity of symptoms

unusual characteristics are not always negative.

deviation from social norms: concerns behaviour that differs from accepted standards

These social norms are not universal across all cultures.

However, in most cultures psychopaths are seen abnormal in most cultures.

Deviation from these social norms are part of the psychiatric practice.

Failure to function adequately: occurs when someone is unable to cope with day-to-day living

Rosenhan and Seligman: proposed failure to function adequately

one sign of this is a loss of eye contact

Steps in seeking professional help:

1. experience severe symptoms

2. cease functioning adequately

3. seek professional help

4. receive targeted treatment

Marie Johoda: she proposed the criteria for good mental health

she said having no criteria of distress is a criterion for good mental health

her criteria is primarily located in the UK and EU

this can cause cultural bias.