1. Definitions Of Abnormality (1) AO1 Flashcards
How is abnormality determined?
The most obvious way to define anything as normal is within the terms of how often it is observed
What are the four definitions of abnormality?
- Statistical infrequency
- Deviation from social norms
- Failure to function adequately
- Deviation from ideal mental health
How is statistical infrequency defined?
In terms of statistics
How is statistical infrequency identified?
Behaviour that is rarely seen is abnormal
Outline the role of IQ in statistical infrequency?
IQ is normally distributed
What is the most obvious way to define things as ‘normal’ or ‘abnormal’?
In terms of the number of times it is observed
What is seen to be ‘normal’ and ‘abnormal’?
Behaviour that is seen often is seen to be ‘normal’ and behaviour that isn’t seen very often is seen to be ‘abnormal’
What is the average IQ?
Most people have an IQ between 85 and 115 making the average IQ 100
What percentage of people score an IQ below 70?
2%
What is said of the 2% that have low IQ (70)?
They are statistically unusual or ‘abnormal’ and are diagnosed with intellectual disability disorders.
What is statistics all about?
Analysing numbers
Discuss deviation from social norms
Abnormality based on social context - Person behaves in a way that is different from expected - they may be defined as abnormal
Who decides whether behaviour is correct or not?
societies and social groups make collective judgements about correct behaviours in particular circumstances
Discuss cultural context in deviation from social norms
There are relatively few behaviours considered universally abnormal - definitions related to cultural context - includes historical differences within same society - e.g. homosexuality is abnormal in some cultures
Name one important symptom of antisocial personality disorder
Failure to conform to ‘lawful and culturally normative ethical behaviour?
