Definitions in the field of mental health; deviation from ideal mental…

The idea

In Psychopathology, defining abnormality involves four main approaches. Statistical infrequency defines abnormality as mathematically rare behaviours, like an IQ < 70. Deviation from social norms views abnormality as violating unwritten societal rules, e.g., antisocial personality disorder. Failure to function adequately is when one cannot cope with everyday life, showing distress (e.g., severe depression preventing work). Jahoda’s deviation from ideal mental health identifies abnormality by the absence of positive traits, like self-actualisation. Each definition has limitations, such as cultural bias or subjective distress assessment.

What earns the marks

• Define statistical infrequency as identifying behaviours outside the normal distribution curve.
• Explain deviation from social norms as behaviour violating implicit rules of a culture.
• Describe failure to function adequately using criteria like observer discomfort and unpredictability.
• Outline Jahoda's criteria for ideal mental health, including autonomy and resistance to stress.
• Evaluate definitions of abnormality by discussing cultural relativism and varying norms.

Common mistakes and how to put them right

• Treating statistical infrequency as always negative.

  Put it right: Rare traits like high IQ are desirable.

• Confusing failure to function adequately with deviation from social norms.

  Put it right: Failure to function focuses on individual coping, social norms on societal expectations.

• Assuming Jahoda's criteria are universally applicable.

  Put it right: Traits like self-actualisation are culturally specific.

Exam tips

• Use concrete examples, like intellectual disability disorder for statistical infrequency, to illustrate definitions of abnormality in psychopathology.
• Always include a limitation for each definition, such as human rights abuses with social norms.