Abnormal Psychology Notes
Definition of Abnormal Psychology:
Abnormal Psychology is the branch of psychology that studies:
•Mental disorders
•Unusual behavior patterns
•Emotional disturbances
•Maladaptive behavior
It focuses on understanding, diagnosing, and treating psychological disorders.
Goals of Abnormal Psychology:
The main goals are to:
1. Describe abnormal behavior
2. Explain causes of disorders
3. Predict future behavior
4. Develop treatment methods
What is Abnormal Behavior?
Abnormal behavior refers to thoughts, feelings, or actions that are:
•Unusual
•Distressing
, •Dysfunctional
•Socially unacceptable
The 4 D’s of Abnormality
1. Deviance:
Behavior that differs from social norms.
Example:
Talking to imaginary people in public.
2. Distress:
Behavior causes emotional suffering.
Example:
Severe anxiety affecting daily life.
3. Dysfunction:
Behavior interferes with normal functioning.
Example:
Unable to attend school or work due to depression.
4. Danger:
Behavior may harm self or others.
Example:
Aggressive or suicidal behavior.
Definition of Abnormal Psychology:
Abnormal Psychology is the branch of psychology that studies:
•Mental disorders
•Unusual behavior patterns
•Emotional disturbances
•Maladaptive behavior
It focuses on understanding, diagnosing, and treating psychological disorders.
Goals of Abnormal Psychology:
The main goals are to:
1. Describe abnormal behavior
2. Explain causes of disorders
3. Predict future behavior
4. Develop treatment methods
What is Abnormal Behavior?
Abnormal behavior refers to thoughts, feelings, or actions that are:
•Unusual
•Distressing
, •Dysfunctional
•Socially unacceptable
The 4 D’s of Abnormality
1. Deviance:
Behavior that differs from social norms.
Example:
Talking to imaginary people in public.
2. Distress:
Behavior causes emotional suffering.
Example:
Severe anxiety affecting daily life.
3. Dysfunction:
Behavior interferes with normal functioning.
Example:
Unable to attend school or work due to depression.
4. Danger:
Behavior may harm self or others.
Example:
Aggressive or suicidal behavior.