Statistical Infrequency Definition of Abnormality
The statistical infrequency definition of abnormality argues that behaviors that occur with statistical rarity should be considered abnormal. It suggests that individuals who fall outside the normal distribution are perceived as being abnormal. Normal behavior is considered to be within 2 standard deviations of the mean, and any behavior outside of this range is labeled as "abnormal". An example of this would be individuals with intellectual disability disorder. The majority of people (68%) have an IQ in the range of 85-115. Only 2% of people have a score below 70, making individuals with such low IQ unusual and therefore considered abnormal. This definition is applicable to mental illness with statistical criteria. For example, individuals with intellectual disability disorder can be compared to statistical norms to identify those who need help.
Rare behaviors can also be positive, such as having an IQ above 130, which is rare and seen as desirable. However, this limited definition only focuses on undesirable traits and can reflect behaviors that people in positions of power and authority will gain from. This can result in the abuse of power, as certain behaviors might be labeled as abnormal to benefit those in power.
Deviation from Social Norms Definition of Abnormality
The deviation from social norms focuses on society's unwritten rules about appropriate and accepted behaviors within each social context. Society makes a collective judgment about the right way to act, and according to this definition, behavior that differs from these expectations is defined as abnormal. An example of this would be people with antisocial personality disorder, characterized by impulsive, aggressive, and irresponsible behavior. These behaviors are deemed abnormal as they go against society's agreed-upon beliefs about acceptable social behaviors, such as being calm, considerate, and kind.
This definition allows psychologists to consider the social dimension in which behavior occurs, and it acknowledges that norms vary across different cultures. For example, in western cultures, hearing voices is a sign of psychosis, while in eastern cultures, particularly African-Caribbean cultures, it is considered to be socially acceptable. This cultural variation creates issues for individuals moving from one culture to another.
Deviation from Ideal Mental Health Definition of Abnormality
The deviation from ideal mental health focuses on what it means to have ideal mental health rather than focusing on what mental "ill-health" looks like. Jahoda identified six characteristics of what is to be normal and mentally healthy, including positive self-attitudes, personal growth, self-actualization, autonomy, accurate perception of reality, and environmental mastery. An example of a disorder using this definition would be depression, as people suffering from depression often find it difficult to carry out everyday tasks and maintain relationships due to their low mood.
This definition allows psychologists to assess the degree of abnormality, taking into consideration that the subjective experiences of the individual can lead to tailored treatment. However, it relies on subjective judgments, and not all abnormalities are accompanied by dysfunction. For instance, a functioning alcoholic may not fit this definition of abnormality. Despite its limitations, such as difficulty in diagnosis and treatment, psychiatrists have developed checklists and standardized tests to reduce subjectivity and produce quantitative data, making it more objective.
In conclusion, the definitions of abnormalities provide valuable frameworks for understanding and identifying abnormal behavior. Each definition has its strengths and limitations, and it is important to consider multiple perspectives when assessing and addressing abnormal behavior.
