IB Psychology Concepts of Normality and Abnormality Notes

No single definition of abnormality works universally; each approach captures some aspects of psychological distress while missing others

1. Defining abnormality describes behavior, thoughts, or emotions that deviate from what is considered typical or acceptable in a given context.
2. Psychology offers multiple approaches to defining abnormality, each with different strengths and limitations that shape how we diagnose, treat, and respond to psychological distress.
3. The definition chosen affects who receives treatment, what treatments are offered, and what social and legal consequences follow.

Statistical Infrequency

1. Statistical infrequency defines abnormality as behavior that is rare or occurs less frequently than in the general population, typically beyond two or three standard deviations from the mean.
2. An IQ below 70 or above 130 would be statistically infrequent; so would exceptional athletic ability or musical talent.

Strength

• Objective and measurable; avoids subjective judgments about what counts as normal.

Limitation

• Rarity does not equal pathology; exceptional intelligence is statistically infrequent but not a disorder. Conversely, common problems like distress or depression affect millions and would not be detected by statistical rarity.

Deviation from Social Norms

1. This approach defines abnormality as violation of social norms; behavior that violates shared expectations or rules within a society.
2. Examples: talking loudly in a library, wearing pajamas to a formal dinner, or making excessive eye contact in cultures where it is considered disrespectful.

Strength

• Recognizes that abnormality depends on social context; norms vary across times, places, and cultures.

Limitation

• Social norms can be arbitrary and biased; historically, psychiatric diagnoses have pathologized minority groups and maintained social control.

Failure to Function Adequately