Definitions of Abnormality

This section explores Definitions of Abnormality in psychology. Psychopathology refers to the study of mental disorders and abnormal behaviour. There are various ways to define what is considered "abnormal" or "abnormal behaviour," and different models approach the concept from distinct perspectives. Here are four key definitions of abnormality:

Deviation from Social Norms

Definition: This definition suggests that abnormal behaviour is characterised by behaviour that deviates significantly from the social norms of a particular society or culture. Social norms refer to the unwritten rules about how we should behave, and breaking these norms is seen as abnormal.

Example: A person engaging in public nudity or speaking to themselves in public might be viewed as abnormal in most Western societies because these behaviours violate social norms.

Evaluation:

Strengths:

• It is easy to apply because social norms are culturally specific and clear to identify in a given society.

Limitations:

• Cultural Relativism: Norms vary significantly between cultures. What is considered abnormal in one culture may be perfectly acceptable in another. For example, in some cultures, speaking to the deceased is a normal practice, whereas it might be considered a sign of mental illness in others.
• Social Change: Social norms change over time. For example, same-sex relationships were once considered abnormal in many societies but are now more widely accepted. Therefore, what is defined as abnormal can change depending on historical and societal context.

Failure to Function Adequately

Definition: This definition focuses on whether an individual is able to function effectively in everyday life. It suggests that abnormal behaviour can be identified if a person is unable to cope with the demands of everyday life or if their behaviour disrupts their ability to work, maintain relationships, or care for themselves.

Example: A person who cannot hold down a job, maintain friendships, or manage basic daily tasks (like personal hygiene) due to their mental state might be seen as failing to function adequately.

Evaluation:

Strengths:

• This definition is practical and observable, focusing on tangible, real-world behaviours that can be identified in everyday life.

Limitations:

• Subjectivity: What is considered “functioning adequately” can vary. For example, someone who chooses to live a solitary life, avoiding work or relationships, might be seen as failing to function adequately but could simply be making a lifestyle choice (e.g., being a hermit or introvert).
• Cultural Relativism: The expectations for functioning adequately vary between cultures. Some cultures may place a higher emphasis on collectivism and social responsibility, while others prioritise individualism and independence.

Statistical Infrequency

Definition: According to this definition, abnormal behaviour is identified when it occurs infrequently or statistically rarely within a population. A behaviour is considered abnormal if it deviates significantly from the average (i.e., if it is rare or not typically found in the general population).

Example: The occurrence of a mental disorder like schizophrenia, which affects only a small percentage of the population, would be considered abnormal using this definition.

Evaluation:

Strengths:

• It is objective because it relies on statistical data and quantifiable measurements of behaviours.

Limitations:

• Not all rare behaviours are abnormal: Some rare behaviours are not harmful or problematic (e.g., extraordinary intelligence or exceptional artistic ability). These rare traits are not considered abnormal even though they deviate significantly from the norm.
• Doesn’t consider context: Behaviours that are statistically infrequent may not necessarily be abnormal in a clinical sense, and conversely, common behaviours (like anxiety) may still be considered abnormal in certain contexts.

Deviation from Ideal Mental Health

Definition: This definition defines abnormality by looking at the absence of certain characteristics that are considered part of ideal mental health. If an individual does not meet the criteria for ideal mental health, they may be considered abnormal.

Key Criteria for Ideal Mental Health (Jahoda, 1958):

Self-attitudes: High self-esteem and a strong sense of identity.

Self-actualisation: The ability to reach one’s potential and pursue personal growth.

Autonomy: The ability to make independent choices and decisions.

Accurate perception of reality: The ability to see the world in an accurate, realistic way.

Environmental mastery: The ability to adapt to different situations and effectively meet the demands of everyday life.

Integration: The ability to maintain balance and harmony between different aspects of the personality.

Example: A person who lacks self-esteem, struggles with personal growth, and has difficulty adapting to change might be seen as deviating from ideal mental health.

Evaluation:

Strengths:

• Holistic: This definition takes a positive approach, focusing on mental well-being and personal growth, rather than just the absence of symptoms.
• Clear criteria: It provides clear benchmarks for assessing mental health based on established ideals.

Limitations:

• Cultural Relativism: Ideal mental health is based on Western values. Some of the criteria for ideal mental health (e.g., autonomy or self-actualisation) may not be valued in other cultures that emphasise social harmony over individualism.
• Unrealistic Standards: Some of the criteria, such as self-actualisation or environmental mastery, may be too idealistic or difficult for most people to attain, thus labelling many as “abnormal” when they may simply be living normal lives with occasional difficulties.

Comparison of Definitions

Deviation from Social Norms is based on cultural context, and it is flexible depending on societal norms.

Failure to Function Adequately focuses on practical behaviours but can be subjective, depending on individual or cultural expectations of what constitutes “functioning.”

Statistical Infrequency is objective but has the limitation that not all infrequent behaviours are problematic, and common behaviours can still be abnormal.

Deviation from Ideal Mental Health offers a positive perspective on abnormality but is criticised for being ethnocentric and potentially setting too high a standard for mental health.

Conclusion

No single definition of abnormality is universally accepted or fully comprehensive. Each definition offers a different perspective, and they can be used in combination to assess abnormal behaviour more accurately.