Defining Abnormality

Introduction

• Mental illness is often stigmatized and misunderstood.
• There are debates about whether labeling someone as "mentally ill" is beneficial.
• Mental suffering is real, and treatment can improve lives.
• Determining mental normality vs. abnormality is controversial.

Evaluating Case Studies

• Six hypothetical individuals with various behaviors were described.
• Questions to consider:
  • Is the person's behavior "normal" or "abnormal"?
  • Is psychological intervention necessary?
  • Would others agree or disagree with your assessment?

Case Descriptions

• Mark: 21-year-old, practices Satanic rituals.
• Jerry: 14-year-old, questions gender identity and attraction to boys.
• Sarah: 59-year-old, prolonged grief after husband's passing.
• Joy: 32-year-old, obsessed with anti-aging.
• Jack: 45-year-old, struggles with obesity and eating habits.
• Jane: 15-year-old, goth style, experimenting with drugs.

Defining Abnormality

A. Statistical Deviation from the Norm

• Uses statistical norms to determine normality.
• Bell curve representation: most people are in the middle, extremes are abnormal.

B. Social Norms Criteria

• Abnormal behavior violates societal norms.
• Norms are rules (written or unwritten) that guide acceptable behavior.

C. Rosenhaun & Seligman's MIS VOUV Criteria

• Seven criteria for abnormality:
  • Maladaptiveness
  • Irrationality
  • Suffering
  • Vividness/Unconventionality
  • Observer Discomfort
  • Unpredictability
  • Violation of Moral Standards

Applying Criteria

• Students are encouraged to apply one of the criteria to the earlier case studies.
• Consider reliability and validity of chosen criteria.

Challenges in Defining Normality

Statistical Deviation

• Simple and objective but not all unusual behavior is problematic (e.g., dedicated mathematicians).

Social Norms

• Simple and reliable, but norms vary widely across cultures.

MIS VOUV

• Nuanced but subjective, and influenced by cultural norms.
• Not clear how many criteria must be met for abnormality.

The Medical Model

• Dominant model in psychology for understanding abnormal behavior.
• Mental disorders are seen as illnesses in the brain.
• Based on DSM (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual).

Basic Assumptions

• Abnormal behavior is symptomatic of mental disorders.
• Disorders are linked to biological abnormalities, such as chemical imbalances.
• Treating biological issues can alleviate mental disorders.

Strengths of the Medical Model

• Reduces blame on patients.
• Encourages research into causes and treatments.

Criticisms and Limitations

• Uncertainty over "real" disorders.
• Lack of objective diagnostic tests.
• Stigmatization risk in diagnoses.

Reflective Questions

• Consider the validity of mental illness classifications and the objectivity of diagnoses.
• Discussion on the impact of labeling and medication, especially in children.

Checklist

• Understanding different criteria and their limitations.
• Familiarity with the medical model and its evaluation.

Quiz Questions

1. Jacques Savin's behavior - Statistical Deviation.
2. Rosenhaun & Seligman's criteria - Harmfulness to others is not included.
3. Social norms & MIS VOUV criteria - Cultural variability.
4. Medical model strength - Requires no invasive procedures is incorrect.
5. Thomas Szasz - Would not agree that mental health needs in children help achieve potential.