PSYCH 2B03 Chapter Notes -Abnormal Psychology, Grandiosity, Psychopathy
19 Apr 2013
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Scientific study of unusual and/or maladaptive thoughts and behavior. How do we define abnormal : statistical infrequency and/or deviation, discouraged by cultural norms, distressing to self and/or other people. Impairs important daily functions (e. g. , work, relationships, housework, etc. ) All of these have problems with them, so we need a definition that includes multiple factors. What is an abnormal personality: difficulty getting along with other people. Pattern of behaviors deviates markedly from society"s expectations. Pattern is inflexible, appears across a broad range of situations, and has a long duration. For some contexts, some of these ways of behaving will be quite functional. Difference or extremity: categorical models: qualitative breaks (tends to be favored in psychology) aka [taxonomic model] distinct categories or taxa. Either have the disorder or do not have it (i. e. , you are abnormal or normal ) Still dominant in psychiatry / clinical psychology.
