Psychology 2030A/B Chapter Notes - Chapter 1: Neurosis, Cognitive Distortion, Unconditional Positive Regard

• School: Western University
• Department: Psychology
• Course: Psychology 2030A/B
• Professor: David Vollick

Document Summary

Simple definition of abnormal away from normal, deviation from statistical average. But that assumes that any behaviour away from normal requires alternation or intervention: often incorrect. People like yao ming (height) and stephen hawking (als condition) deviate from norm but have made positive contributions to society: their abnormalities don"t cause them distress or impair daily functioning. Deviant behaviour goes against society norms, which are constantly changing. Goodness of fit: behaviour can be problematic/unproblematic depending on environment, example. Kid has trouble staying focused in one place. 1st grade teacher accommodated him by creating workstations in class. 2nd grade teacher expects him to sit like other kids, sends him to principal"s office otherwise. His behaviour is considered abnormal in second environment. Family: adolescents deviate from behaviour of parents to become part of peer group. Culture: shared behavioural patterns and lifestyles that differentiate one group of people from another.