Comparing The Psychodynamic Model And Abnormal Psychology

Comparing The Psychodynamic Model And Abnormal Psychology
Major Models Paper
Jo Boyce
Ohio Christian University
October 8, 2017
Major Models Paper
Two major models that are used to define and treat abnormal behavior are The Psychodynamic
Model, with determinant focus on the unconscious internal processes and conflicts, Comer, (2014),
p. 34, and the Humanistic Model which highlights the issues of self–awareness, values, meaning,
and choice. Comer, (2014), p.56., PSY 2010, Abnormal Psychology, p.3. The Psychodynamic Model
is believed to be a determinant of the individual's behavior, either normal or abnormal. This, based
on their personal interactions and experiences with their parent(s) in early childhood. Comer (2014),
p.39–40. Sigmund Freud's taught the instincts id, ego, and superego are the responsible forces
behind an individual's thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Conflicts and unresolved feelings of trauma
are the basis of therapy. "Therapists will utilize different techniques to help their clients, including
free association, dream interpretation, resistance, understanding, and transference." Comer, (2014),
p.45. ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
The client experiences absolute regard and empathy while experiencing conscious personal growth.
The therapist humanistic therapy focuses on the individual's conscious, personal, subjective
experiences while expressing unconditional positive regard. The client works within an environment
of acceptance while fulfilling their own goals to grow. Empathy is the primary tool used in
humanistic therapy. By consciously expressing understanding, the therapist demonstrates to the
client that he/she understands his/her feelings and experiences. PSY 2010, Abnormal Psychology,
... Get more on HelpWriting.net ...

Abnormal And Clinical Psychology : Psychology
Abnormal and clinical psychology are two branches in the field of psychological studies. In simple
words, abnormal psychology can be defined as the study of people who engage in unusual behavior
and emotional thoughts. These actions and thoughts are considered abnormal compared to those of
other members of society, and they significantly interfere with their functioning in life. Clinical
psychology goes hand in hand with abnormal psychology because it is the study that deals with the
assessment and treatment of those abnormal actions. Learning about these branches of psychology
can help us understand and predict behaviors of people who that are affected by these disorders. It is
also essential to advance our knowledge to help assess the people who suffer these illnesses to lead a
life of better quality. In this paper, a case study that entails a brief vignette of a 35 year old paralegal
named Greg will be analyzed. According to concepts of abnormal and clinical psychology, Greg will
be diagnosed with the psychological disorder of obsessive–compulsive disorder (more formally
known as OCD) that might have originated in the anal stage of the psychoanalytic theory, for which
cognitive behavioral therapy will be used as a possible treatment. When reading the vignette, small
details that are mentioned should be evaluated carefully to ensure that correct treatment is provide.
Greg, as mentioned earlier, is a 35 year old paralegal. The vignette states that he decided to seek

The Psychology Of Abnormal Psychology
Before discussing the definition of abnormal psychology, it is first important to identify the real
meaning of the word "Abnormal". For laymen to be asked of the definition of the word Abnormal, it
is common to encounter answers such as people and behaviors that is weird, strange and odd. These
characterizations are not enough to fully describe the true and deeper meaning of the word
Abnormal. It is important to consider characteristics in defining abnormal such as whether the
behavior is causing impairment in a person's life, also if it hinders the person in functioning properly
and successfully in different aspect of his or her life such as psychological, interpersonal and
personal achievement and performance. When these actions and behaviors are present it is safe to
say that it is a sign of an abnormal behavior that can later on develop in to an psychological disorder.
Abnormal Psychology is defined as the study of mental disorders, which also can be referred to as
mental illness, psychological disorders or psychopathology. It studies different aspects of mental
disorders from what the behavior and person look like or symptoms to the reason why the disorder
occur or its etiology. Also abnormal psychology deals with how to address and maintain the
disorders especially the people exhibiting these symptoms and also what effects and possible
dangers these abnormal behaviors have on the person and the people around them (Davila, n.d).
Abnormal psychology is a branch of

Abnormal Psychology Labels
As humans we like to place labels on everything. In order to define, describe, or just to pin point
something out. The majority of us humans are guilty of using words such as "normal", "abnormal",
"crazy", "psychotic", and "dysfunctional" to describe people we see behaving in a certain manner.
Behavior of an individual usually tends to be the main source from which these labels derive. While
placing these labels on various behaviors we forget some factors, which are culture, values, and
personal perspective. As a society we are so quick to judge, especially the American society.
As part of the American society we tend to be very quick to place a label on behaviors. For example,
in my undergraduate career I took a course called "abnormal Psychology". The first day of the
course the instructor made it very clear that there was no such thing as "normal", and "abnormal". ...
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On the other hand, I have to think about a few things. Why do we have the DSM 5, courses such as
abnormal psychology, and most importantly why do the terms "normal" and "abnormal" or "health"
and "dysfunctional" exists? All of these labels do not exist for any apparent, if they did not exists as
a previous instructor of mine said, or are challenging to label. Then the field of psychology would be
inexistent. A major part of the field is due to the mental disorders people have, which have already
been labeled. These disorders were labeled in order for clinicians, or professional to do three things:
place a label, find the structure of treatment, and treat the disorder. This system here is the whole
focus of the DSM in general. As for the course abnormal psychology that was taken during my
undergrad career, we touch bases on various brain disorders that were not "normal" for the average
mentally stable human. The terms "abnormal", "normal", "health" and "dysfunction" do exist due to
the previous reasons listed

Historical Perspective of Abnormal Psychology
Running head: ABNORMAL PSYCHOLOGY
Historical Perspective of Abnormal Psychology
[Student's Name]
[Name and Section no of Course]
[Instructor's Name]
[Date]
Introduction
Abnormal psychology can be defined as the study of mental disorders. It includes the topics and
problems that are very common in our daily lives. TV, newspapers, magazines and websites,
frequently expose the cases of celebrities and famous personalities that suffer from drinking, eating
or some other kind of mental disorder.
The purpose of writing this paper is to explore the origin of the field of abnormal psychology, its
evolution into scientific discipline and briefly discuss the different psychosocial, biological and
socio–cultural theoretical models related to the development of abnormal psychology.
Origins of Abnormal Psychology
The field of abnormal psychology tuned out to be a scientific discipline in the last century but the
introduction of the abnormal behaviour started as early in the Biblical history (Damour and Hansell,
2008). The initial explanation of the mental illness was a spiritual approach built on an assumption
that the meta–physical spirit world can affect the real observable world. This assumption and belief
on psychotherapy initiated the practice of boring holes in the skull of a person in order to take out
the evil spirit. This medical process of actually performed in 3000 B.C in Bolivia, Peru and also in
the pre–Hispanic Azrtec and Incan Civilizations (Shieff, Smith &

Psyc 430 Abnormal Psychology and Major Depressive Disorder
PSYC 430 Research Paper
Abnormal Psychology and
Major Depressive Disorder
Abnormal Psychology and
Major Depressive Disorder
Student's Name
Liberty University
Abstract
This research paper will examine the concepts of psychopathology, or abnormal psychology and
how it deals with a various set of symptoms or behaviors that manifested by functional impairments
in a person's life. Psychological disorders (e.g. Major Depressive Disorder) and the causes of
abnormal behaviour have been understood by a various different theories and have been documented
throughout historical transformations. Additionally, this research illustrates the Causes of the
Depression, ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
In just one theory, Burton believed that melancholy could be prevented with a sufficient sleep,
music, healthy diet, and "consequential work", as well as having a balanced social life with friends
and family. Moreover, in the period of 18th century, the theory of melancholia, which is linked to a
Major Depressive Disorder, had become progressively more challenged by electrical and mechanical
explanations; whereby, if a person exhibited a gloomy and dark state of mind it was also proved that
the person gave way to a depleted state of energy loss (Girdlera & Klatzkinb, 2007). The term
"depression" was derived from a Latin verb deprimere, "to press down." Dated as far back to the
14th century, the term "to depress" meant to bring down in spirits or to conquer (AllDisease.org,
2011). Even though melancholia continued to be the leading diagnostic expression, depression
increased its frequency (its usage of name) in the medical field and was a synonym by the end of its
century. The DSM–I (1952) (as cited in Girdlera & Klatzkinb, 2007) refers to depressive reaction
and the DSM–II (1968) (as cited in Girdlera & Klatzkinb, 2007) depressive neurosis, as words that
define an extreme reaction to an identifiable conflict or an internal circumstance (DSM, 2000).
Causes of the Depression It appears that psychological, social, and biological factors will all play a
role into the various degrees that cause depression. Many theorists believe that the depression

Fundamentals Of Abnormal Psychology
Annie is a 17–year old female attending Lincoln High School. It recently has come to the attention
of her teacher that she appears sluggish and sickly during her first period class. Annie has always
had good grades and received a lot of attention from the faculty at school. However, she recently
hasn't been turning in her homework, comes in late to class, and has had a generally apathetic
attitude about her education.
One morning Annie's teacher sent her to the school nurse after smelling alcohol on Annie's breath.
The school nurse called the school police officer who breathalyzed her. Annie blew a BAC of .09,
which constitutes intoxication. Annie's parents were called and she was sent home. Annie was
referred to a school counselor ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
Her mother would come home late from the bars, spending more time with her co–workers than
with her family. Her mother excessively drank. She tried to hide it, but Annie has seen it her whole
life. The book Fundamentals of Abnormal psychology says, "Researchers have, in fact, learned that
problem drinking is more common among teenagers whose parents and peers drink, as well as
among teenagers whose family environments are stressful and unsupportive" (Comer, 2016). Annie
was completely alone. She has no father, no available mother, no siblings to confide in. She lacked
the social skills to reach out to peers that had a positive influence on her life. Now that her
troublesome environment and behavior is being addressed, she will be guided, through treatment,
into living a healthy lifestyle and her lack of family support will be attended

Abnormal Psychology : A Study Of Unusual Emotion, Thoughts...
Abnormal psychology is the study of unusual emotion, thoughts or behavior. It basically constitutes
individual who are not what society would deem as normal and follow the norms of a particular
culture. Individuals that are constantly not able to adapt and function properly in various conditions
can be viewed as abnormal because a number of factors could be restricting them from functioning
effectively in a society. The definition of what is "abnormal" has changed over time, across different
cultures, and is different for individuals within a particular culture. These unusual emotions,
thoughts or behaviors may correlate with mental disorders. A distinct set of theories are used to
understand these forms of abnormality. Psychopathology can be defined as the study of mental
disorders. In more direct terms it focuses on abnormal behavior, mental distress and mental illness.
This form of study looks to examine different elements that would affect the mental state or physical
being of an individual. When looking at the subject matter of abnormality I can see that there are
many books and movies that incorporates characters that demonstrate abnormal behaviors. A movie
that consists of characters exhibiting abnormality throughout is Silver Linings Playbook. The movie
Silver Lining Playbook portrays two primary characters, Pat Solitano and Tiffany Maxwell. Both of
these characters have psychological disorders that they struggle with. Pat who was a teacher finds

Historical Perspectives of Abnormal Psychology
Abnormal Psychology
PSY 410 January 30, 2012
For many years, various forms of madness have been noted in every culture. Multitudes of theories,
as well as some myths, have been developed to explain such conditions. Society's opinion on what
was considered abnormal was based on such phenomenon as paranormal forces, the anger of the
gods, the influence of the moon, unstable personality, hereditary factors, and debauchery (Frude,
1998). History shows that theorists continue to develop a variety of theories to explain
psychological disorders. These theories usually fall in one of three basic categories:
mystical/supernatural (possession of ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
Scientific advances in mental illness were virtually nonexistent during the Middle Ages. Spiritual
causes ruled, and those with psychological disorders were classified as morally weak, or were
accused of forbidden practices, such as those associated with witchery, sorcery, and the devil
(Damour & Hansell, 2005). "Witch hunts" were more common at the height of the 14th and 15th
centuries in Europe, accusing many of the mentally ill of practicing witchcraft. Various attempts
were made over the years to encourage just treatment of the mentally ill, and various voices of
reason attempted to eliminate the stigma of abnormal behavior.
Emil Kraepelin began using scientific methods to classify mental disorders by concentrating on the
biological characteristics of mental disorders (Frude, 1998). Kraepelin's approach resulted in a
closer alliance between psychiatry and medicine, believing that a chemical imbalance was to blame
for schizophrenia and that a metabolism abnormality caused manic depression (Frude, 1998).
Numerous core concepts in psychology have influenced explanations of abnormal behavior. Models
for explaining abnormal behavior throughout history (historical relativism), and the principle of
stressing the assimilation of different perspectives (multiple causality) have helped differentiate
between predisposing and precipitating causes of abnormal behavior. The connection between mind
and body has become the most modern model, signifying that both biological

Pathological Psychology : Abnormal Psychology
There is no clear cut definition for behavior that is labeled abnormal. It is this way due to the fact
that society in its entirety has to agree on normative behavior. Because society will never have the
exact same views, opinions, beliefs, or culture, an unmistakable definition will not occur. A
simplified definition of this behavior is unusual conduct that goes against what is classified as
ordinary in society. The study of this sort of behavior is abnormal psychology. Abnormal
psychology focuses on atypical sequences of conduct, feelings, and ideas. Since disorders are any
form of interruption in the methodical functioning of an individual, it can be viewed upon as
abnormal. A branched area of abnormal psychology includes personality disorders, which indicates a
mental disturbance. These particular types of disorders lead to a fixed form of judgement, operation,
and action. In order to serve the population of those who deal with borderline personality disorder
internally and externally, as well as handling the violence and aggression in intimate relationships,
one must understand borderline personality disorder, the reasoning for the violence and aggression,
the issues that could occur in an intimate relationship, and how to treat the perpetrator and offender
appropriately.
Every disorder had something trigger it into existence. Parents who withdrew themselves
emotionally from their child and handled the child irregularly, most likely lead to abuse, neglect, and

Abnormal Psychology Terms
Abnormal Psychology Terms 1. "even our negative emotions help us survive. for example, aren't our
suspicious often justified?" most likely someone with a ______ theoretical perspective made this
statement "I knew right after we got home from the hospital that our kid had a problem," the parents
said. unless the parent is using 20–20 hindsight, the child's diagnosis most likely is "i'm concerned
about Ritalin use; its possible effects on children's growth, and its increasing heart–attack risk in
hypertensive adults" an acquaintance worries. your best reply, based on the most recent research is
"it is obvious that this case of obsessive–compulsive personality disorder arises from an early
childhood fixation." which type of psychologist ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
22. 23. a child's distracting behaviors occur only in a school setting, and include failure to follow
instructions and finish work, answering questions before they have been completed, and a lot of seat
squirming and fidgeting. could ADHD be a diagnosis of this child a client being treated for avoidant
personality disorder must increase the number of social contacts per day–– defined as people greeted
with at least the phrase, "Hello. How are you?"–– in order to later engage in some desired activity.
most likely, the therapist has which theoretical background a client being treated for schizotypal
personality disorder must show up for therapy appointments on time, dress appropriately, and
complete some social skills training. most likely the theoretical orientation of the therapist is a client
suffers from severe problems in remembering recent information, and has increasing difficulty using
ordinary language and other cognitive skills. the resulting diagnosis probably will be a clouding of
consciousness that develops over a short period of time and can often be reversed if its underlying
cause can be found is called a friend asks your advice about the best therapy to use for treating
borderline personality

PTSD In The Field Of Abnormal Psychology
In the realm of psychology, the field of abnormal psychology has always proven to be a challeng–
ing one for the psychologists because of two reasons. First, this branch as the name suggests deals
with the abnormal and aberrant population of the society and understands their behaviors and
emotions that in some ways vary from the social norms so the results obtained from a research
cannot be generalized. Second, the medication of the patient is purely based on the symptoms that
they exhibit or report. Sometimes the feelings described by the patients might not satisfy the
standard criteria outlined by the Diagnostic Manual . This might lead to a delay in medication. One
such abnormal psychological disorder that came into limelight after Vietnam War is Post–traumatic
stress disorder (PTSD) . ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
The psychologists discovered this perilous disorder by examining the survivors of combat stress
post the war. Although the discovery of PTSD is recent, the history dates back to around 1600. One
of the early and unbelievably accurate descriptions of PTSD was given by William Shakespeare in
his play Henry IV, Part 1(act 2, scene 3, lines 40–62) and it was around 1597. The history of PTSD
has always been linked to the history of wars especially World War I. Another such striking,
autobiographical account of PTSD was given by a recuperating British lieutenant in England after
being trapped in enemy lines. The autobiographical account was given in the book war neuroses and
shell shock written by Frederick Mott 1919 . The British lieutenant spent 5 days in the village and
the physical and the mental challenges that he faced in those 5 days had conquered his mind. He still
hasn't recovered in the present context. This historical perspective shows that the concept of PTSD
was rather discovered and not

Abnormal Psychology Essay examples
It's human nature to wonder why we act the way that we do and why things happen. So many
scholars over the years have come up with numerous theories in order to categorize the things that
are known and explanations of what it all means. Life is full of trials and tribulations and those who
study maladaptive behavior usually focus on the thoughts, feelings, perceptions, and skills one uses
during daily living. Feelings, thoughts, perceptions and skills all combine to aid in creating our
mental states and lead to behavioral abnormalities. Thoughts are made up of ideas, concepts and the
internal dialogue a person has within their mind. Perceptions are how one interprets incoming
sensory signals through processing and organizing the ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
This perspective truly focuses on the mind–body connection (Sarason & Sarason, 2005, p.47). The
psychodynamic perspective believes that biological and mental are both equal contributors to human
life. Those who support the psychodynamic perspective believe that personality is shaped by
combining inner and outer events, with emphasis on the inner events (Sarason & Sarason, 2005,
p.59). Basically, our experiences shape who we are. Sigmund Freud is the most well known theorist
of this type with the basis of his concept involving the conscious and unconscious psychic
connection (Sarason & Sarason, 2005, p60). The third theory of abnormal behavior is the behavioral
perspective specifically focusing on how the environment affects how we behave. Those who
formed the behavioral perspective felt that Freud's ideas were too complicated and that this was a
simpler way to explain human behavior– simply that we are a product of our environment (Sarason
& Sarason, 2005, p.67). The cognitive perspective puts emphasis on how people acquire and
interpret information and use it in problem solving. This perspective also emphasizes the mental
processes that people are unaware of or can be made aware of. The cognitive perspective focuses on
our present thoughts and relationships between emotions, motivations and

Questions on Abnormal Psychology
Part 1 of 4 – 12.0 Points
Question 1 of 50 1.0 Points
According to the integrative model, which of the following factors influence the onset and
maintenance of somatic symptom disorders? A.Biological, psychological, social and cultural factors.
B.Psychological, cultural and perceptual factors. C.Medical, sociological, and psychological factors.
D.Cultural, medical, and gender factors. Answer Key: A
Concerning the cause of dissociative disorders, _______ dominate(s) this field of psychology.
A.theory and speculation B.statistical analysis from experiments C.observation and patient
interviews D.experimental research with controlled groups Answer Key: A
Jill was the ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
Although she has had a complete medical work–up, no basis for the extremity of her pain has been
found. Despite this medical clearance, she does not feel well enough to return to college studies.
Which of the following best describes Heather 's symptoms? A.Factitious disorder B.Somatic
symptom disorder C.Dissociative disorder D.Depersonalization disorder Answer Key: B
Part 2 of 4 – 2 13.0 Points
"Double depression" is a term used to refer to episodes of A.dysthymia that recur frequently.
B.major depressive disorder in addition to dysthymia. C.dysthymia without major depressive
disorder. D.suicidal thinking found in major depressive disorder. Answer Key: B
Tracy is experiencing depression and is writing in a journal in order to contemplate the cause of her
mood. What response style is Tracy using to cope? A.distracting style B.attributional style
C.ruminative style D.external style Answer Key: C
Based on John Bowlby 's model of attachment researchers have focused on how mother–infant
attachment affects A.family support in adulthood. B.vulnerability for bipolar disorder and
cyclothymia. C.existential issues in the elderly.

Biological Approach To Abnormal Psychology
Psychology, as a field, works to understand the complex inner–workings of the mind, and to make
sense of why people behave the way they do. The use of psychology helps individuals gain a
stronger comprehension of themselves and others. Abnormal psychology is a sect that puts a specific
focus on individuals who exhibit rare behavior. The study of abnormal psychology examines why
people exhibit such behavior by using specific models as a base for understanding.
Abnormal psychology is the study of individuals who are "abnormal" in relation to other members
of society. Abnormal behavior can be determined using statistics; this means that someone who
exhibits behavior that is statistically rare, would be considered to be exhibiting abnormal behavior.
... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
This approach examines the underlying causes, which include: genetics, physical illnesses, chemical
imbalances, and infections (Cherry, 2017). An example of an abnormal behavior that is caused by
biological factors is schizophrenia; elevated levels of dopamine create the symptoms associated with
schizophrenia (McLeod, 2014).
The behavioral approach, on the other hand, understand abnormal behavior through the observation
of life circumstances and experiences. According to the behavioral approach, since all behavior is
learned it can also be unlearned. An example of a learned behavior is phobias which typically
develop as a result of exposure in the past to something that caused anxiety or fear (McLeod, 2014).
This approach aims to change abnormal behavior through use of strategies like classical and operant
conditioning (Cherry, 2017).
The cognitive approach focuses on how thoughts, perceptions, and reasoning influence abnormal
behavior (Cherry, 2017). As opposed to the behavioral approach, the cognitive approach suggests
that abnormalities arise as a result of the way one perceives events, rather than the events
themselves. The goal of the cognitive approach is to change actual thought processes and cognitions
in order to overcome abnormalities (McLeod,

Abnormal Psychology Essay
Abstract
The following paper includes such topics of normal and abnormal psychology. Discussed with these
topics are definitions of each as well as the similarities and differences between them both. Included
here also is a discussion and explanation of two mental disorders and two mental illnesses all taken
from the psychology perspective. As the reader will see, normal and abnormal psychology as well as
the mental disorders and illnesses are common issues that could happen to any person or affect any
family at any time. In addition to learning about the disorders and illnesses the reader will also learn
about possible therapies for treating these mental disorders and illnesses. Mental disorders and
mental illnesses objectively studied ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
Dependent Personality Disorder deals with extremely passive individuals. They show an extreme
need to be taken care of, they fear separation, and tend to show clinging behavior. This is a long–
term condition in which people depend solely on others to meet their physical and emotional needs.
People with this disorder do not trust their own abilities to make decisions (Bruce Pfohl, M.D.) No
specific treatment for this disorder although psychotherapy and medications can be helpful.
Individuals with Avoidant Personality Disorder are subject to inadequacies in social situations that
may cause embarrassment, anxiety, or rejection. They are over sensitive to any kind of criticism and
they tend to develop some kind of phobia that stems from this disorder. They tend to live alone;
however they can manage limited contact with family and friends (Market, 2008). The
recommended treatment for this disorder is psychotherapy.
Similarities among each School of Thought for Mental Illness Therapy Each school of thought in
psychology has its own approach to therapy for mental disorders; however there are some
similarities. In psychoanalysis there are two types of therapy psychoanalysis and psychodynamic
psychotherapy; cognitive and behaviorisms have several courses of therapy: systematic
desensitization, exposure technique, operant technique, participatory modeling, skills training, and
cognitive therapy. In Humanism two types of

Abnormal Psychology
In 2008, in the Journal of Abnormal Psychology, Scott R. Carlson of the University of British
Columbia and William G. Iacono of the University of Minnesota reported their findings on a study
entitled "Deviant P300 Amplitude Development in Males Is Associated with Paternal Externalizing
Psychopathology". The study explored individuals from different paternal groups and labeled these
individuals as low–risk, intermediate–risk, and severe–risk for a variety of psychological disorders
based on the degree to which their fathers used/abused substances, alcohol and/or had other
abnormal psychological behaviors such as adult antisocial behavior. After recording data about the
fathers and their offspring, the researchers conducted tests on the ... Show more content on
Helpwriting.net ...
There were also two factors considered within the rotated heads test: there was an easy portion,
where the nose was facing up, therefore an ear image to the right of the nose was on the right side of
the head and vice versa, and there was a hard portion, where the nose was facing down, therefore an
ear image to the right of the nose would actually be on the left side of the head. Furthermore, the
researchers had a neutral stimulus where an image with no nose or ear was presented to the
participant. To gather data brain during this test, the researchers placed multiple attachments to a
participant's head and conducted electroencephalographic (EEG) tests to determine P300 wave
amplitude during the rotated heads test. P300 levels generally spike in response to a familiar
stimulus, which is a piece of prior information that the researchers knew and used to analyze and
evaluate the data they collected on each of the test subjects from the three different paternal risk
level groups. The purpose of the study was to evaluate any potential connections between paternal
psychopathology or alcohol/substance dependence and similar behavioral patterns of potential
psychological or substance abuse disorders in offspring. The study used P300 amplitude as an
operational definition of internalized psychological occurrences and compared it to externalized
psychopathology and substance abuse in father–offspring data. Data from an independent (x–axis)

Case Study Abnormal Psychology
Case Study Name: Institution: Date: Case Study Abnormal behavior relates to the influence of
psychological factors, biological factors as well as the social factors referring to inadequate
relationships. In the face of diverse definition, abnormal behavior refers to the deviating from norm,
which norm is the typical behavior or characteristic of the population. As such, Jim behavior is
abnormal because it violates moral and conventional mores of the society (Violates societal
standards), as such causing social discomfort to others. For instance, Jim fails to recognize the social
cues in conversation thereby annoying other interlocutors. Jim is this case is behaving in a manner
counterproductive to his own well being by ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
The episode of the Jim portrayed in the case falls in the dimension of Axis II. The present edition of
DSM–IV published in 1994, offers virtually 400 disorders (Crowe, 2000). The advantage of this is
that it enhances diagnostic impartiality by adding decision trees demarcating significant
characteristics of disorders, which makes clinicians by collections of questions concerning the
presence or the absence of the symptoms. The present DSM–IV manual comprises of extensive
anthology of information organized into portions for easier reference (Purse, 2009). The first section
encompasses instructions on the way to use the tools contained in the DSM–IV, while following
section contains comprehensive classification systems catalog of the official codes for each single
diagnosis. The fourth section comprises of the manual detailing the diagnostic criteria accompanied
by a description for each disorder. Despite the advantages highlighted above, there are some
disadvantages in the manual compilation. First, the DSM–IV compilation lacks the exactitude in
diagnostic criterion to evidently, differentiate one diagnosis from the other as well as the
distinguishing mental disorder, from the situation, such as mental distress. DSM is not visibly clear
on how experiences and behaviors cited within the diagnostic criterion justifiably can consider as
substantiation of mental disorder as distinctive from rejoinders to life events (Crowe,

Dna And Therapy Of Abnormal Psychology
EORY AND THERAPY OF ABNORMAL PSYCHOLOGY
The biological model is most important in function of the human system. In psychotherapy, if we
have deficits with our biology, then we fix the deficient, inhibit the unwanted response or excite the
wanted response. As William DeMeyer, MD relates, "all human behavior consists of secreting
substances or changing the length of muscle fibers.
Whatever the behavior, it originates from nerve impulses traveling through neural circuits.
Therefore, all behaviors and all thoughts depend on neuroanotomic circuits.
Through functional examination and testing, we have a very high probability to pinpoint where the
deficit is. Functional examinations consist of many types of testing to specify where a
particular ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
This disease has been traced to a loss of cells in the basal ganglia and cortex".
This is interesting because in DeMeyers text he states on page 1 that: "Disease that affect the
THEORY AND THERAPY OF ABNORMAL PSYCHOLOGY nervous system manifest by mental,
motor, or sensory symptoms and signs and abnormal body contours". Whether one is Professor
Emeritus of Pediatric Neurology at
Indiana University School of Medicine or a biological researcher or theorists, they both understand
the real underlying probable causes of most mental disease.
The question is whether or not deeply studied neuroanatomy and neurophysiology need be adept in
a clinician's ability to perform a correct differential diagnosis. The answer is no, at least not for the
majority of mental health clinicians. Most likely the highest percentage of patients will be either
suffering with depression or anxiety and these are well cared for by their general practitioner (M.D.)
or a psychologist. However, when the more difficult cases need be addressed, who shall take care of
these? In the instance of schizophrenia, Huntington's disease and other deeply rooted mental illness,
a skilled psychiatrist who possesses a thorough understanding of neurophysiology would be needed,
as long as they appreciate the applications

Future Abnormal Psychology Class
To all future Abnormal Psychology students, Professor Lamorte is very straight to the point with his
lecture and you will definitely find this class interesting if you enjoy learning about abnormal
behaviors and abnormal mental disorders. The class runs very smoothly with a power point
presentation about designated chapters, and most of the time the professor does the talking. I suggest
you pay attention to specific examples being said by students and the professor, just in case you may
want to use them as reference on your exam. This will only apply if you decide to take the take
home open ended exam rather than the 50 multiple choice in class version. This class is extremely
entertaining in the sense that you will not get bored. Professor Lamorte always pairs his lectures
with very interesting videos that supplement the academic lecture, and I must say that he is very
good at making sure that these videos will captivate your imagination with all the new and
interesting knowledge being presented. Another thing that I'm sure you all will enjoy about this class
is that he has a great sense of humor, and he always tries to bring laughter to the class. It seems that
laughing can be a medicine, and Professor Lamorte seems to always use comedy and laughter to
make the best out of a situation. For example, he may use standup comedy to portray some
behaviors associated with specific disorders and create a more positive and pleasant approach to
such. Also, the kinds of videos he will show in class are very good so that you get an idea of the
kinds of people and cases you will be dealing with. It provides you with enough material to decide
whether or not abnormal psychology is something you want to pursuit further. It exposes you to
situations that will allow you to have insight on what is like to be a therapist dealing with different
types of clients.
A mistake that I personally made during the semester was to take the multiple choice version of the
test, even when I was aware that I don't do well in multiple choice exams. One of the advantages of
taking this course with Professor Lamorte is that he gives you the option to pick between a multiple
choice exam and an open ended take home essay exam. If you consider

Abnormal Psychology : A Study Of Unusual Emotion, Thoughts...
Abnormal psychology is the study of unusual emotion, thoughts or behavior. It basically constitutes
individual who are not what society would deem as normal and follow the norms of a particular
culture. Individuals that are constantly not able to adapt and function properly in various conditions
can be viewed as abnormal because a number of factors could be restricting them from functioning
effectively in a society. The definition of what is "abnormal" has changed over time, across different
cultures, and is different for individuals within a particular culture. These unusual emotions,
thoughts or behaviors may correlate with mental disorders. A distinct set of theories are used to
understand these forms of abnormality. Psychopathology can be defined as the study of mental
disorders. In more direct terms, it focuses on abnormal behavior, mental distress and mental illness.
This form of study looks to examine different elements that would affect the mental state or physical
being of an individual. When looking at the subject matter of abnormality I can see that there are
many books and movies that incorporate characters that demonstrate abnormal behaviors. A movie
that consists of characters exhibiting abnormality throughout is Silver Linings Playbook. The movie
Silver Lining Playbook portrays two primary characters, Pat Solitano and Tiffany Maxwell. Both of
these characters have psychological disorders that they struggle with. Pat, who was a teacher, finds
his wife in

Abnormal Psychology
According to Hoeksema's book, Abnormal Psychology, some examples of the most common
delusion–like behaviors come from the subtypes of delusions that include persecutory delusions,
grandiose delusions, and somatic delusions. First, persecutory delusion is a false belief that they are
being watched and conspired against by other people around them, which may also include the
people they care a lot about. Secondly, a grandiose delusion involves the individual believing they
have an immense wisdom to be more influential or a great ability of some kind. Thirdly, somatic
delusions are when an individual erroneously believes that something is wrong with them like their
overall appearance is contaminated, malformed, or even their body riddled with ... Show more
content on Helpwriting.net ...
Other disorders that delusions are known to appear include schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder,
schizophreniform disorder, psychotic disorder, and schizotypal personality disorder. The mentioned
schizophrenic disorders are devastating and categorized by the inability to differentiate between
what is real and what isn't real. Individuals with these types of disorders may experience
hallucinations, unable to thin rationally, trouble communicating, inability to make decisions, and
their behaviors might seem odd or outrageous. Fortunately, these disorders can be treated with a
combination of medications and therapy, which is why it is imperative to diagnose the disorder
accurately and as soon as possible (Hoeksema,

Abnormal Psychology Essay
Abnormal Psychology
Abnormal psychology in the area within psychology that is focused on maladaptive behavior–its
causes, consequences, and treatment. Abnormal psychology deals with how it feels to be different,
the meanings the get attached to being different, and how society deals with people whom it
considers to be different. The spectrum of differences is wide, ranging from reality defying
delusions and severe debilitations to worries and behavioral quirks that we would be better off not
having but do not significantly interfere with our daily lives. An example of the milder end of the
spectrum is a man who was an eminently successful district attorney, was elected governor of New
York on three occasions, and was almost elected ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
Joan was a very successful business women working for a major stock broker firm. She was quickly
moving up the ladder and had just received a big promotion on what she hoped would be her way to
the top. Houghton's normal life was abruptly interrupted one day when she broke down and began to
see things and also hear things that did not exist. She had been in and out of mental health care her
entire adult life, but now she had reached the breaking point. She began to lose touch with everyone
in her life. She stopped showing up for work and eventually was committed to a mental institution
by her family. Houghton's break with reality required an intense treatment during a long period of
hospitalization. There are many possible explanations for Joan's break down. Her life had been fairly
normal expect when she was 6 years old her father molested her. Joan told her mother a few weeks
later. Knowing that her husband probably did molest her she tried to convince Joan that it was just
bad dream. She just could not imagine asking her husband if her had done this horrible act. She was
very much afraid of him. So the molesting continued for another three years. These events haunted
her entire life, and most likely were the cause of her mental break down. (Houghton, 1982,pp. 548–
549) Governor Dewey and Joan Houghton might be described as

Abnormal Psychology. Classification and Assessment of...
3 CHAPTER Classification and Assessment of Abnormal Behavior CHAPTER OUTLINE HOW
ARE ABNORMAL BEHAVIOR PATTERNS METHODS OF ASSESSMENT 80–99
CLASSIFIED? 70–77 The Clinical Interview The DSM and Models of Abnormal Behavior
Computerized Interviews Psychological Tests STANDARDS OF ASSESSMENT 77–80
Neuropsychological Assessment Reliability Behavioral Assessment Validity Cognitive Assessment
Physiological Measurement SOCIOCULTURAL AND ETHNIC FACTORS IN ASSESSMENT 99–
100 SUMMING UP 100–101 T R U T H or F I C T I O N "Jerry Has a Panic Attack on the
Interstate" Interviewer: Can you tell me a bit about what it was that brought you to the clinic? Jerry:
Well, . . . after the first of the year, I started getting these panic attacks. I ... Show more content on
Helpwriting.net ...
Although his theory proved to be flawed, Hippocrates' classification of some types of mental health
problems generally correspond to diagnostic categories we use today. His description of
melancholia, for example, is similar to our current conception of depression. 69 70 Chapter 3
During the Middle Ages some "authorities" classified abnormal behaviors into two groups, those
that resulted from demonic possession and those due to natural causes. The 19th–century German
psychiatrist Emil Kraepelin was the first modern theorist to develop a comprehensive model of
classification based on the distinctive features, or symptoms, associated with abnormal behavior
patterns (see Chapter 1). The most commonly used classification system today is largely an
outgrowth and extension of Kraepelin's work: the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental
Disorders (DSM), published by the American Psychiatric Association. Why is it important to
classify abnormal behavior? For one thing, classification is the core of science. Without labeling and
organizing patterns of abnormal behavior, researchers could not communicate their findings to one
another, and progress toward understanding these disorders would come to a halt. Moreover,
important decisions are made on the basis of classification. Certain psychological disorders respond
better to one therapy than another or to one drug than another.

Abnormal Psychology
Abnormal Psychology
Roshaun Hatchett
PSY/410
April 25, 2012
Dr. Christopher Daub
Abnormal Psychology
Abnormal psychology has been in existence for more than a century. Mental illness was approached
from a spiritual point of view. Individuals of certain beliefs would misdiagnose others from the
spiritual perspective and would assume that evil spirits controlled his or her's physical, mental, and
observable world (Tyrer, 2010). The following will be covered in this document: the origins of
abnormal psychology, classification of normal and abnormal behaviors, how abnormal psychology
evolved into a scientific discipline, and the theoretical models related to the development of
abnormal psychology. The practice of ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
6). The biological model of abnormity makes the assumption that psychological and behavioral
abnormalities have a biological cause. Genetics for example, a tiny abnormality in one's genes can
result in abnormalities in a person's brain functioning properly and will lead to his or her behavior
being abnormal. Chemicals are also an influence or the biological model; the brain depends on a
surplus of chemicals to maintain its balance. Neurotransmitters and hormones are needed to send
messages to the brain and nervous system. Without the proper amount the brain will function
abnormally (Tyrer, 2010). The sociocultural model of abnormality examines the social and cultural
trends of everyday world and how environments contribute to mental disorders. "Sociocultural
theorists believe social forces contribute to mental disorders through learning. Individuals learn to
adopt behaviors normal and abnormal in response to the social and cultural roles model, ideals,
pressures, and stresses they encounter" (Hansel, Damour, 2008, page 216). Abnormal psychology
has been changed dramatically over the last century. It has made extraordinary advancements that
will assist mentally ill individuals live their abnormal existence and not be mistreated due to these
abnormalities. The development of the theoretical models was a tremendous step to creativity an
organized diagnosis of how to

Models Of Abnormal Psychology
There are various models of abnormality. Such models include the biological model, psychodynamic
model, behavioral model, cognitive model, humanistic–existential model, and the sociocultural
model. Models of abnormality explain the causes and treatments for all psychological illnesses.
Psychologists don't believe in all of these models, they are considered theories due to being based
off a psychologist's own beliefs and assumptions. These theories are even more complex as many
have theories within themselves. This proves that psychology is ever expanding, fascinating, and
complex.
The biological model sees physical processes as the key to human behavior. Biological theorists
believe that abnormal behavior is biological, thoughts and feelings ... Show more content on
Helpwriting.net ...
Behaviors change in response to their environment. The behaviors which are learned help people
cope with their daily challenges. Many behaviors are achieved through conditioning. Operant
conditioning is teaching someone to behave a certain way through rewards. Modeling is learning
behaviors through observing others. Classical conditioning is when "learning occurs by temporal
association. When two events repeatedly occur close together in time, they become fused in a
person's mind, and before long the person responds in the same way to both events." Behavioral
therapists goal is to identify what behavior are contributing to a person's problems and replace them
with ones more appropriate. This model is one of the most appealing due to its capability of being
studied in a lab while psychodynamic theories generally are incapable of

Symptoms And Symptoms Of Abnormal Psychology
According to Cherry (2016), abnormal psychology is a branch within psychology that focuses on
behaviour that is unusual and not deemed as normal within society. This branch of psychology is
composed of a variety of disorders and their causes as well as possible management and/or
treatment. With this in mind and within this assignment, I will discuss the causes of abnormal
behaviour, discuss the causes and symptoms of mood disorder as well as discuss the background and
importance of Sigmund Freud.
Section One – The Causes of Abnormal Psychology
With the above understanding of the branch that is abnormal psychology, it is important to look at
the causes or reasons as to why unusual, that which is beyond the norm of what behaviour is ...
(Fincham et al, 2005: 317)
Biological make–up and genetics could also play a part in causing an individual to display abnormal
behaviour. It is believed that the disorders that are found within abnormal psychology are as a result
of the genetic make–up of the individual, for example as a result of a brain defect. Although some
disorders can be characterised by genetic defects, it is not possible that these defects can be pin
pointed as the sole cause.
Attachment and security serve as further causes of abnormal psychology. As above, the attachment
model of psychopathology also places emphasis on the relationship between the parent and child
but, rather than focusing on the perceptions of the child, there is a focus on the characteristics of the
actual relationship. It is believed that if a parent does not provide a feeling of security, trust and love
then the child will develop a negative view and, thus, result in an inability to regulate emotions and
feelings. As a result, the child will be at a greater risk of developing a disorder.
Distorted can be defined as selectively changing or not completely representing true reality. With
this definition in mind, distorted thinking can most certainly be deemed as a cause of abnormal
psychology. Thinking in a distorted manner can allow an individual to expect the worst and
exasperate on negativity and pessimistic ways.

Is Abnormal Psychology Crazy
When a person says, abnormal psychology most people think of mental disorders, or for lack of
better words, crazy people. Merriam Webster defines abnormal psychology as: "a branch of
psychology concerned with mental and emotional disorders (as neuroses, psychoses, and mental
retardation) and with certain incompletely understood normal phenomena (as dreams and
hypnosis)." People who don't study psychology don't understand that what is considered to be
abnormal should not be considered crazy. With abnormal behaviors, most of the time it is
compulsive and unconscious decisions. People should not treat something as an eating disorder as
someone with insanity. As a woman who is growing up in a century filled with tabloids and people
nit–picking at other women, I understand how ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
There are several factors and reasons that both women and men develop eating disorders. There is a
definite stigma that comes with eating disorders. People assume that an eating disorder is simply
starving yourself or forcing yourself to throw up. However, that is not the case at all. The National
Institute of Mental Health has stated that "an eating disorder is an illness that causes serious
disturbances to you everyday diet, such as eating extremely small amounts of food or severely
overeating." People simply don't starve themselves. There are people who overeat to
overcompensate for other factors in their lives. There are three common eating disorders which
include anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge–eating disorder. Anorexia nervosa is when a
person is restraining the amount of food that they eat and sometimes go as far as not eating for days
or weeks. Bulimia nervosa is when a person eats large amounts of food, and then compensates by
forced vomiting, use of laxatives, fasting, excessive exercise, or a combination of these behaviors.
Binge–eating disorder is when a person completely loses control over their

Abnormal Psychology Vs Psychopathology Essay
1) Compare and contrast the concepts of "abnormal psychology" and psychopathology" and the
implicit assumptions of both terms. Considering abnormal psychology is an alternative definition of
psychopathology, it is assumed they are different in the eyes of society. Psychopathology is a term
focused on the psyche (mind, soul) and a disorder (dysfunction, diseased, unhealthy and illness). It
is also based from deviations from statistical and social norms along with maladaptive behavior,
distress and impairment. Although abnormal psychology and psychopathology are defined the same,
abnormal psychology is often viewed from a perspective that individuals who are suffering from
mental health issues as likely to be considered "abnormal" either in the statistical or the functional
sense. By being identified as "abnormal", it portrays that a person struggling with psychopathology
are "not normal", which cultivates stigmatization (illness/dangerousness) among society.
Acknowledging that many people could be considered abnormal in a statistical sense, it does not
make that person pathological. A few great examples of an abnormal deviation would be a group of
women having a 13 shoe size, or a group of men measuring at 4 ft. Even though these individuals
fell outside the statistical norm range, they are considered abnormal; which does not identify them to
be pathological, just different.
Another good example would be a group of individuals scoring high in an IQ assessment. Although

Anxiety Disorders: Abnormal Psychology
Introduction Abnormal psychology studies people with behavior that is not considered normal in
comparison to other members of society. There are many behaviors that are considered abnormal
even though they are frequent because the frequency of a behavior does not determine if it's a
problem. Therefore, instead of classifying behaviors into normal and abnormal categories, abnormal
psychology studies the level of the behavior's effect on an individual's life. If it causes problems it
might be considered a psychological disorder that may require intervention. Abnormal psychology
covers a wide range of disorders such as anxiety disorders. Anxiety can be found in everyday life, it
is characterized by feelings of worry, nervousness and unease. ... Show more content on
Helpwriting.net ...
They focused on child anxiety to study maternal negativity and mother–child anxiety specifically.
The gathered around 200 children at the age of 4 and classified them as either behaviorally inhibited
or uninhibited. Child anxiety and behavioral inhibition were asserted two years later. The results
showed that inhibited children were more likely to be diagnosed of GAD or social phobia. Maternal
anxiety also affected child anxiety over time. In conclusion, over involved parenting increases risk
for development of anxiety in later

Abnormal Psychology (Uop) Test #2
Abnormal Psychology Test #2 Study Guide with Answers TRUE/FALSE 1. Most people with
mental disorders behave in a highly irrational or dangerous manner. ANS: F 2. People who are
strange, weird, or bizarre have a mental disorder. ANS: F 3. People with mental disorders are
strange, unusual, and noticeably different than other people. ANS: F 4. 5. There can be no universal
definition of abnormality. ANS: T 6. Ideas about what are normal and abnormal vary over time and
across cultures. ANS: T 7. Abnormal behaviors and feelings are often exaggerations of normal
states. ANS: T 8. Normal behaviors can be categorized as distinctly different from abnormal
behaviors. ANS: F 9. Every human ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
|somatoform disorders | ANS: C 5. Which of the following provides a better definition of
abnormality than the others? |a. |deviant | |b. |emotional distress | |c. |help seeking | |d.
|irrational/dangerous | ANS: B 6. Which definition of abnormality is considered to be the best? |a.
|deviant | |b. |help seeking | |c. |irrational/dangerous | |d. |significant impairment | ANS: D 7. Marvin
is feeling so depressed that he is having trouble making it to work and

Abnormal Psychology
The field of abnormal psychology engages with the obscure line between normal and abnormal
behaviour. This blur is as a result of the dissonance that occurs when the two terms are defined for
example, when cultural perspectives are taken into consideration–where behaviour (for example
sake, experiencing hallucinations) considered deviant in one population is normalcy in another. In
attempt to make the field comprehensive a middle ground was determined by drawing on the
common elements or patterns of "peculiar" conditions, and converging them to ascertain this
definition of abnormality: behavioural, psychological, or biological dysfunctions that are atypical
and unexpected in their cultural context and associated with personal distress and ... Show more
Taking this into account, a more accurate way of understanding deviance is the extent to which
cultural norms or ideological perspectives are breached (Examine the concepts of normality and
abnormality, 2011). However, even within a particular cultural context, equating deviance with
abnormality is problematic. It is problematic because such a criterion fails to distinguish between
positive and negative behaviours that deviate from the norm. For instance, deviations from the norm
may be due to characteristics like eccentricity, genius or some form of outstanding achievement.
These could be hardly viewed as abnormal or pathological (Barlow & Durand, 2012). In brief, all
three features need to be present for an individual's behaviour to be termed as "abnormal". Regina's
behaviour is spread across all three criteria, therefore, her behaviour is abnormal; in terms of
dysfunction, her disruptive behavioural patterns fit this criterion because they stand in the way of
her personal growth and actualisation. For personal distress, anxiety and depression are prominent
symptoms, and she seems to struggle with unbearable negative thoughts about herself and the world
around her. Finally, her public nudity, sexual escapades and writing of incoherent thoughts on all the
surfaces of her dormitory room are culturally atypical behaviours. This process of only determining
the normality and abnormality of behaviours is inefficient as it does not account for the actual
behaviours or

Abnormal Psychology In Stranger Things
Joyce Byers is one of the main leading characters in "Stranger things." She is the mother of two
boys Will and Jonathan. They live in a small town called Hawkins, Indiana. To start off the show,
Joyce seems to be a mother who is burning the candle at both ends. She seems as though she is
working all the time and does not have time for her boys. One night, Will's older brother Jonathan
does not make sure he is home because he thought that his mother did. Then of course Will is not
there in the morning when his mother tries to get him up for school and they can not find him. Joyce
goes into a panic like any mother would, and this starts the going downhill in the way that she acts
and does certain things. According to Simply Psychology, Abnormal psychology is a division of
psychology that studies people who are "abnormal" or "atypical" ... Show more content on
Helpwriting.net ...
Her behavior and the way she goes about things in very uncommon. While to her she does not see
her unusual acts, to the minority of people she seems as though she is crazy, which is why it is
unusual. To most people Joyce is a normal mother with two boy, that is why when she starts to go
crazy we could classify her actions has unusual. Even though I do think that any parent would act
like this if their child was taken and they would not even worry if they were being unusual or not.
Joyce starts to think that she can talk to and hear Will though the lights in her house. She goes
absolutely crazy trying setting up every light and christmas light. She even goes to the local
department store and tries to buy more christmas lights with no money. She is so distraught though
that she doesn't even care about paying she grabs them and tells them to put her on her bill and she
leaves. She then sets up the lights all over her house and tries to connect with her son. No one in the
whole town wants to believe her and so this would cause me to think that she is displaying unusual

What Is Abnormal Psychology?
Abnormal psychology has a troubled past; with a lack of understanding or research into the makings
of the human mind and behaviors, people would assume it was the work of outside forces and would
only worsen the individual instead of giving them the proper care to recover. Those who suffer(d)
from mental health issues often receive incorrect care even in facilities designed to aid them in their
healing.
Abnormal psychology is the field that is devoted to studying the mental problems that occur.
However, what is considered abnormal varies by culture. Culture is composed of one's history,
values, institutions, habits, skills, technology, and arts. What society considers to be "normal" plays
a big part on how people are treated in society, some behaviors break legal norms and is perceived
as criminal; while some behavior, thoughts, and emotions that break psychological functioning
norms are perceived as abnormalities. These aren't the only views attached to social norms, some
people's abnormalities are considered eccentric and just a part of their personality. Multicultural
psychology is a field that examines the impact of culture, race, ethnicity, and gender on behaviors
and thoughts, the study focuses on how these factors potentially influence the origin, nature, ...
They help uncover the functioning and reasoning behind abnormalities in the human mind. From the
knowledge they acquire, clinical practitioners put the information into use by assessing, detecting,
and treating abnormal patterns of functioning. Treatment and therapy are procedures designed to
change abnormal behavior into one that's more normal. Those who undergo these procedures are
either referred to as "patients" or "clients". Often times the terminology is based off of the belief of
the clinical practitioner; patient tends to be used by those who see abnormality as an illness, while
client is used by those who view it as a

Abnormal Psychology
Abnormal Psychology Psychology is the study of the mind and behavior. It seeks to comprehend
people by understanding mental functions and social behavior. It also explores neurobiological and
physiological processes that can drive cognitive functions and behaviors. It is this drive to
understand mental processes that pushes psychologists to want to learn about what is normal and
abnormal behavior. People have tried for thousands of years to understand and define abnormal
behavior. In the past 100 years it has undergone "tremendous change, progress, and controversy"
(Hansell, J & Damour, L., 2009, p.3). Throughout the modifications certain principles have
remained which are known as the core concepts. These core concepts are what define ... Show more
Differences in culture, environment, and upbringing are just some of the factors that can determine
what is normal to a person. Due to these differences there can't be a universally accepted definition
to describe abnormal behavior. Instead there is a set of criteria that is used in defining abnormalities.
It is made up by five characteristics that are condensed in the acronym HIDES. The first is help
seeking, which implies that a person that seeks help has an abnormality. This is not always accurate
as there are many people who "Seek psychotherapy for help with "normal" life stresses" (Hansell, J
& Damour, L., 2009, p.10). The second is Irrationality, it associates mental illnesses with
irrational or dangerous behavior. This is also very deceiving because most people with mental
disorders are not irrational. The third letter stands for deviance, which refers to a behavior that
differs from usual behaviors. A person might categorize a person that deviates as being weird or
strange. Having a deviant behavior tends to have a negative connotation attached to it, but it can be
positive. Albert Einstein was one who was different from the usual, "yet he was highly constructive
and creative"(Hansell, J & Damour, L., 2009, p.12). The fourth is emotional distress, which is
when a person has feelings of "sadness or anxiety, it is associated with most forms of
psychopathology, making it more

Abnormal Psychology: Abuse, Addiction, & Disorders
Psychological Disorder Analysis
ABNORMAL PSYCHOLOGY: ABUSE, ADDICTION, & DISORDERS
Psy 270
Jalisa Cooper
February 4, 2012
Final paper
Psychological Disorder Analysis
Psychological disorders can be very debilitating for those who suffer from them. Psychological
disorders affect a person's ability to function normally in their daily lives. In regards to the case
study of Nicole the patient Nicole is a 40–year–old Hispanic female who comes to the mental health
clinical complaining of trouble sleeping, feeling "jumpy" all of the time, and experiencing an
inability to concentrate. These symptoms are causing problems for her at work, where she is a
finance manager. Though the information in regards to Nicole is very ... Show more content on
Helpwriting.net ...
Those individuals with PTSD often develop other disorder such as depression; substance related
disorders as well as anxiety disorders. Meaning those that suffer from severe Post–traumatic stress
disorders may often result to substance abuse and may of their symptoms may be influenced by the
usage of these substances causing their condition to seem more extreme. As well as depression and
anxiety disorders can in addition contribute to the symptoms PTSD raising the impact of each
symptom to a higher level depending on the severity of each disorder.
Many times individuals are misdiagnosed because of the commonality of symptoms between
disorders. Studies have shown that 60% of adult men today have experience a traumatic even,
whereas 51% of adult women have experience a traumatic event at least once in their life. It is
common for many individuals that experience traumatic events sometime throughout their life to not
be affected by these events. Of 50% of American that experience a traumatic event of any kind, only
approximately 8% of them eventually experience Post–traumatic stress disorder symptoms later in
life. It is suggested that each event is different in their own way as well as has different impacts on

each individual. There are factors that predict ones vulnerability of Post–traumatic stress disorder
which would revolve around the nature of the event the individual experienced. The

Chapter 2: Fundamentals Of Abnormal Psychology
HW 2 CH 2 Reading Comprehension Assignment
After reading Chapter 2 of Ronald J. Comer's book, Fundamentals of Abnormal Psychology, I now
understand key principles of 4 models that that contribute to understanding abnormalities. The first
model is the biological model, which can be linked to Roman and Greek times as I read in chapter 1.
It mainly states that the cause of psychological abnormalities is that of physical illness. In addition,
the abnormalities are introduced because of malfunctioning parts in the brain. This includes the
possible malfunction of neurons that are found in the cerebrum and the possible malfunction of
these neurons and the transmissions between them. Other factors may include genes, evolution and
viral infections ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
People with abnormalities in this field have a couple treatments from their therapist. One treatment
is called client–centered therapy, in which the therapist talks to the client face to face and helps the
client begin to feel positive about themselves and develop more positive regard for themselves along
with better developed empathy. The second form of treatment is gestalt therapy, which can be
similar to client–centered therapy, but uses different techniques. These techniques are skillful
frustration and role–playing. In skillful frustration, the therapist's job is to basically make a person
mad and not meet that client's needs in order to show that client that they are often manipulative in
their life. In role–playing, the therapist has the client play various roles such as maybe being another
person, a different character of that client's self, or even an object. This helps clients become more
confident in themselves to accept the feelings that they had before about themselves that would
make them feel negative. Now, with the existential approach, it is believed that people are not
naturally born as friendly, cooperative and constructive. Instead, they

Abnormal Psychology And Oppression
Looking at the course title, "Abnormal Psychology," I expected to learn about mental illnesses,
including the dynamics of schizophrenia and the perpetual spiral of depression. On the first day of
class, I realized that what would be discussed would be completely different from what I had
expected. Instead of what I had previously thought about individuals being abnormal, I had to shift
my way of thinking to question whether it was the people who were "abnormal," or whether the
society itself was the problem. Through insightful readings, discussions, and lectures I have
developed my own opinions on the impact of oppression; how to think about mental disorders; and
the system of the DSM, psychiatry, and insurance systems. There is no real way ... Show more
Culture is defined as the parts of individual identity one participates in by choice or force in the
society in which they live. Religion, wealth, and health are all cultures in the American society.
Oppression comes in forms such as racism, sexism, homophobia, classism, heterosexism, ableism,
ageism, religious prosecution, and so on. Marilyn Frye (2000) explains in her essay "Oppression,"
that "the root of the word 'oppression' is the element 'press,' presses are used to mold or flatten
things"– to reduce them by squeezing them, something pressed is caught between forces and barriers
which are so related to each other that they restrain, restrict, or prevent the thing's mobility. (Frye,
2000, 11) Oppression immobilizes, it stems from the misunderstanding of people of different
cultures who see others as deviant from the "norm" in their culture or the overall "norm" in society.
For example, Joreen (1968) writes in the Bitch Manifesto that "the most prominent characteristic of
all Bitches is that they rudely violate conceptions of proper sex role behavior," the violation is
different for each Bitch, but they all violate them (Joreen, 1968, 1). People then generally feel
uncomfortable around Bitches, considering them aberrations, which leads the culture to create a
"dumping ground for all who they deplore as bitchy and call them frustrated women." The same
oppression that is subjected to bitches for deviating from the norm is placed on all deviant groups
within society, especially those who are stigmatized with the label of having a mental health illness.
And each mental health illness has its own form of oppression, its own tag of stigma based on how
"severe" (aka deviant) from the norm society and different cultures consider it. For example, feeling
godly is considered by the culture of religion to be relatively normal or honorable, whereas by the
rest of society

Comparing The Psychodynamic Model And Abnormal Psychology

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