Unit 2 Understanding Abnormal Behavior In A Historical Context

Unit 2 Understanding Abnormal Behavior In A Historical Context

Understanding what constitutes abnormal behavior has long been a complex endeavor within the field of psychology. The definition of abnormal behavior varies depending on cultural, societal, and individual perspectives, making it a challenging concept to pin down definitively. According to Durand and Barlow (2013), a psychological disorder can be characterized by dysfunction associated with distress or impairment in functioning that is not typical or culturally expected. This multifaceted description allows for the consideration of various behavioral, emotional, and cognitive aspects, but it also underscores the difficulty in establishing clear boundaries between normal and abnormal behaviors.

In exploring how to define abnormal behavior, the focus often shifts to specific criteria such as dysfunction, distress or impairment, and cultural norms. For instance, dysfunction refers to behaviors that interfere with a person's ability to carry out daily activities effectively. Distress or impairment addresses the emotional or psychological suffering experienced by the individual, impacting their quality of life. The notion of not being typical or culturally expected involves societal standards and norms that help differentiate between culturally accepted behaviors and those considered unusual or pathological.

This discussion will analyze a case study highlighting the distinction between normal and abnormal behavior, specifically focusing on dysfunction as the criterion. In the case study, an individual presents with persistent symptoms of obsessive-compulsive behaviors that significantly interfere with daily routines. These behaviors include excessive hand-washing and repeated checking, which consume substantial time and prevent participation in work or social activities. According to Durand and Barlow (2013), such persistent and distressing behaviors that impair functioning qualify as dysfunctional, and therefore, potentially abnormal.

However, differentiating abnormal from normal behavior based on dysfunction alone presents inherent challenges. For example, some individuals may engage in repetitive behaviors that serve as coping mechanisms without experiencing distress or impairment, complicating the clinical determination of abnormality. Additionally, cultural influences can shape what is considered dysfunctional; for example, customs or rituals that involve repetitive practices may be viewed as normal within certain communities but abnormal outside those contexts. As noted in the textbook, cultural norms play a crucial role in determining when behaviors are interpreted as dysfunctional or deviant (American Psychiatric Association,

2013).

Furthermore, differentiating abnormal behavior from normal can be problematic because of the subjective nature of assessing impairment. What one clinician considers a significant impairment may differ from another, especially when cultural factors influence perceptions of behavior. For instance, a behavior deemed dysfunctional in one cultural setting might be viewed as acceptable or even admirable in another. This subjectivity underscores the importance of considering cultural context and individual differences when diagnosing psychological disorders.

In conclusion, while dysfunction offers a concrete criterion for identifying abnormal behavior, it intersects with other factors such as distress and cultural expectations, complicating the classification process. Recognizing the challenges in differentiating normal from abnormal behavior emphasizes the importance of a culturally sensitive and individualized approach in psychological assessment. Continued research and dialogue within the psychological community are essential to refining diagnostic criteria and improving our understanding of what constitutes abnormal behavior.

References

American Psychiatric Association. (2013).

Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed.). Arlington, VA: American Psychiatric Publishing. Durand, M. V., & Barlow, D. H. (2013).

Essentials of abnormal psychology (6th ed.). Mason, OH: Thomson Wadsworth.

Maschio, J. (2014). Understanding and defining abnormal behavior. [Video]. Unpublished.