PSY 4130 Lecture Notes - Lecture 10: Psy, Bethlem Royal Hospital, Psychopathology

• School: University of Ottawa
• Department: Psychology
• Course: PSY 4130
• Professor: Danielle Impey

Document Summary

What is mental illness: several terms have been used throughout history for what we may consider mental illness. Ex: mad, lunatic, maniac, and insane: currently, terms such as psychopathology and abnormal behavior are used in addition to mental illness. We try to use more medical or scientific terms to describe mental illness. Characteristics: current cultural beliefs and traditions affect what a society may call abnormal or not, several recurring themes are part of the description, harmful behavior. Behavior which is self-mutilating or suicidal is generally considered abnormal: unrealistic thoughts and perceptions. A person"s beliefs or perceptions which are different from those considered normal at specific time and place are considered abnormal and signs of mental illness. Delusions are abnormal beliefs, hallucinations are abnormal perceptions: inappropriate emotions. Emotional displays are inappropriate based on the community in which one lives; may lead to label of mental illness: unpredictable behavior. Beliefs and emotions experience sudden shifts may be a sign of mental illness.