AQA A Level Psychology Psychopathology Exam Questions with Correct Answers

Define the four definitions of Abnormality Correct Answer Definition 1: Deviation from Social Norms - Standards of acceptable behaviour are set by a social group and anything that deviates from this behaviour is deemed abnormal. In the past being homosexual was seen as deviant from social norms, campaigners have now changed the social perception and have made it normal. This proves that this explanation is subject to change. Definition 2: Failure to Function Adequately - This is where people are not able to cope with everyday demands such as eating in public. It interferes with everyday life and the individual judges when their behaviour becomes abnormal. Definition 3: Deviation from Ideal Mental Health - Physical illness being defined as the absence of signs of physical healthiness. This definition says we should look at mental illness in the same way, there are 6 categories that if are not there then this would suggest mental illness. They are: Self Attitudes, Self Actualisation (max potential), Integration, Autonomy, Reality and Mastery of Environment. Definition 4: Statistical Deviation - Uses numbers to define abnormality, unusual behaviours occurring frequently. (using distribution curve) Outline Limitations of 'Deviation from Social Norms' as a definition of abnormality. Correct Answer -It lacks any cultural relativism as different actions are considered normal in different cultures thus the definition cannot be generalised across cultures. -The definition will need to evolve with time as social norms do. -There is no objective factual way of saying wether what someone is doing is deviating from social norms or not. Outline Limitations of 'Failure to Function Adequately' as a definition of abnormality. Correct Answer -Not everyone admits when they are failing as some may feel content with the way they are functioning, making it difficult to diagnose. -It may not be obvious that someone is not functioning, therefore it is difficult to diagnose using this definition alone. -It lacks cultural relativism, as what is considered adequate in on culture differs to another. Outline Limitations of 'Deviation from Ideal Mental Health' as a definition of abnormality. Correct Answer -The criteria that we should meet is over demanding, can individuals realistically achieve all 6 categories at once. -Also the definition lacks cultural relativism, collectivist cultures believe in the greater good for the community but individualistic cultures believe in the 'autonomy' therefore it cannot be generalised across cultures. -The definitions are all very subjective, you think you achieving to full potential but someone else may think you aren't.