Unit 4 - Psychopathology, Psychology in Action and Research Methods
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Discuss statistical infrequency and deviation from social norms as definitions of
abnormality (16 marker)
Statistical infrequency is when an individual may have an uncommon
characteristic compared to the rest of the population. For example if you have
a significantly low IQ you may be deemed as abnormal. Deviation from social
norms is when a person’s behaviour strays from the standards of society. This
could be things such as pushing in line or a personality type such as antisocial
personality as they deviate from the social norms of society.
One limitation of statistical infrequency would be that some traits may be seen
as desirable. This is because things such as high IQ would be seen as abnormal
yet many people would find that desirable. Therefore statistical infrequency
has reduced validity of determining abnormality, not only this but it doesn’t
represent those who may need extra help as a high IQ would not be a
disadvantage. Suggesting it is a weak explanation for abnormality.
One limitation for deviation from social norms would be that behaviour varies
with culture. For example in New Zealand hearing voices is a normal
occurrence and even said to be positive as it shows your more spiritual.
However in other cultures that could be seen as abnormal and noted down
that individual would need help. This suggests that deviation from social norms
is less valid as it fails to appreciate the differences in cultures social norms
meaning it is not a universal definition.
Another limitation is that deviation from social norms lacks temporal validity.
This is because 50 or so years ago being a homosexual was labelled as
abnormal that should be treated as the norms of society did not accept it.
However nowadays it is heavily accepted where in some countries
homosexuals are legally allowed to marry. This suggests that the deviation
from social norms definition is less reliable as the norms of society are
constantly changing.
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