The document discusses different definitions of abnormality that psychologists use: (1) deviation from social norms, (2) failure to function adequately, (3) deviation from ideal mental health, and (4) statistical infrequency. It provides examples and explanations of each definition. The definitions must be objective and not over- or under-inclusive. You need an understanding of the first three definitions for the exam, while the fourth (statistical infrequency) is optional to understand.

1. Definitions of Abnormality
• Defining a person or behaviour as ‘abnormal’
implies something undesirable and requiring
change
• Therefore, we must be careful how we use the
term
• Psychologists need methods for distinguishing
‘normal’ from ‘abnormal’

2. Definitions of Abnormality
Our definition of abnormality must be objective:
– It must not depend on anyone’s opinion or point of view
– It should produce the same results whoever applies it
It must not be under- or over-inclusive
– It must not label as ‘abnormal’ or ‘normal’ behaviours or
traits that aren’t

3. Definitions of Abnormality
You MUST have an understanding of the
following three definitions for the exam:
1. Deviation from social norms
2. Failure to function adequately
3. Deviation from ideal mental health
You could have an understanding of the
following definition for the exam:
• Statistical infrequency

4. Statistical Infrequency
• Under this definition, a person’s trait, thinking
or behaviour is classified as abnormal if it is
rare or statistically unusual.
• With this definition it is necessary to be clear
about how rare a trait or behaviour needs to
be before we class it as abnormal

5. Statistical Infrequency
Average IQ in the
population is 100pts. The further from 100
you look, the fewer
people you find
frequency
70 100 130
IQ Scores

6. Statistical Infrequency
A very small subset of
the population (<2.2%)
have an IQ below 70pts.
Such people are
statistically rare. We
regard them as having
frequency
abnormally low IQs
70 100 130
IQ Scores

7. Deviation from Social Norms
• Under this definition, a person’s thinking or
behaviour is classified as abnormal if it violates
the (unwritten) rules about what is expected or
acceptable behaviour in a particular social group.
• Their behaviour may:
– Be incomprehensible to others
– Make others feel threatened or uncomfortable

8. Deviation from Social Norms
• With this definition, it is necessary to
consider:
– The degree to which a norm is violated, the
importance of that norm and the value attached
by the social group to different sorts of violation.
– E.g. is the violation rude, eccentric, abnormal or
criminal?

9. Failure to Function Adequately
• Under this definition, a person is considered
abnormal if they are unable to cope with the
demands of everyday life.
• They may be unable to perform the
behaviours necessary for day-to-day living e.g.
self-care, hold down a job, interact
meaningfully with others, make themselves
understood etc.

10. Failure to Function Adequately
Rosenhan & Seligman (1989) suggest the following
characteristics:
– Suffering
– Maladaptiveness (danger to self)
– Vividness & unconventionality (stands out)
– Unpredictability & loss of control
– Irrationality/incomprehensibility
– Causes observer discomfort
– Violates moral/social standards

11. Deviation from Ideal Mental health
• Under this definition, rather than defining
what is abnormal, we define what is
normal/ideal and anything that deviates from
this is regarded as abnormal
• This requires us to decide on the
characteristics we consider necessary to
mental health

12. Deviation from Ideal Mental Health
Psychologists vary, but usual characteristics
include:
• Positive view of the self
• Capability for growth and development
• Autonomy and independence
• Accurate perception of reality
• Positive friendships and relationships
• Environmental mastery – able to meet the varying
demands of day-to-day situations