Defining Psychological Problems

Overview

This topic introduces candidates to the fundamental challenge of defining what constitutes a ‘psychological problem’. For OCR GCSE Psychology (J203), a precise understanding of the distinction between ‘mental health’ and ‘mental health problems’ is crucial. The specification requires candidates to assess two key definitions — deviation from social norms and dysfunction — and to evaluate their strengths and limitations, particularly in relation to cultural relativity. Examiners expect a detailed knowledge of the clinical characteristics of Schizophrenia (positive and negative symptoms) and Depression (cognitive, emotional, and physical symptoms) as laid out in the International Classification of Diseases (ICD). Furthermore, credit is given for understanding the broader impact of these problems on individuals and society, including economic consequences. This guide will equip you with the specific knowledge, analytical skills, and exam techniques required to confidently tackle any question on this topic.

Defining Psychological Problems

Deviation from Social Norms vs. Dysfunction

Deviation from Social Norms: This definition classifies behaviour as abnormal if it violates the unwritten rules or accepted standards of a particular society. For example, in many cultures, hearing voices would be seen as a deviation from the norm.

• Strengths: It is a practical way to identify behaviour that society finds unacceptable and can be a clear indicator when a social rule is broken.
• Limitations: This definition is highly subjective and dependent on cultural context. Social norms change over time (e.g., attitudes towards homosexuality), and what is normal in one culture may be abnormal in another. This is the concept of cultural relativity, a key evaluation point for examiners.

Dysfunction: This definition focuses on whether a person’s behaviour is preventing them from functioning adequately in their daily life. This includes their ability to work, maintain relationships, and look after themselves. The ICD-11 uses dysfunction as a core diagnostic criterion.

• Strengths: It is a more objective measure than deviation from social norms and is less culturally biased. It focuses on the individual's experience of distress and impairment.
• Limitations: What is considered ‘functional’ can still vary. A person with a high-functioning form of a disorder may not be identified by this definition alone.

Clinical Characteristics

Schizophrenia and Depression

Schizophrenia: A severe, long-term psychotic disorder where a person has a break from reality. It is NOT a ‘split personality’.

• Positive Symptoms (experiences added): Hallucinations (e.g., hearing voices), Delusions (fixed, false beliefs), Disorganised Speech.
• Negative Symptoms (abilities lost): Avolition (severe lack of motivation), Alogia (speech poverty), Flat Affect (reduced emotional expression).

Depression: A mood disorder characterised by persistent low mood and loss of interest or pleasure.

• Cognitive Symptoms: Negative thoughts, hopelessness, difficulty concentrating.
• Emotional Symptoms: Persistent sadness, anhedonia (inability to feel pleasure).
• Physical/Behavioural Symptoms: Sleep disturbance, changes in appetite, psychomotor retardation (slowed movement).