Concepts of Abnormality

Explore the criteria, history, causes, and classifications of psychological disorders through an interactive lens.

Foundations of Abnormality

Before categorizing disorders, we must define what constitutes "abnormal" behavior. Psychologists rely on specific criteria and societal contexts to make these distinctions.

The Four Ds of Abnormality

Deviance

Extreme

Behavior that is extreme, unusual, or bizarre. It differs markedly from societal norms.

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Distress

Upsetting

Behavior that is unpleasant and upsetting to the individual or to those around them.

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Dysfunction

Interference

Interference with the person's ability to conduct daily activities effectively.

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Danger

Risk

Behavior that poses a risk of harm to the individual (self-harm) or to others.

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Distinguishing Normal from Abnormal

Deviation from Social Norms

Behavior is labeled abnormal if it violates stated or unstated societal rules of conduct.

Key Critique: Cultural Relativity. What is accepted in a competitive society (e.g., aggression) may be abnormal in a cooperative one.
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Context Matters:
Rules vary by culture.

Evolution of Perspectives

How humanity has understood and treated psychological disorders has shifted radically throughout history.

Supernatural Approach

Ancient Times - Middle Ages

Attributed to magical forces, evil spirits (bhoot-pret), or the devil.

Treatment: Exorcism Healers: Ojha/Shaman

Biological (Organic) Approach

Greek Antiquity (Hippocrates/Galen)

Strange behavior results from defective body processes. Temperament linked to body fluids.

Greek Humours: Blood, Black Bile, Yellow Bile, Phlegm.
Indian Ayurveda: Vata, Pitta, Kapha (Doshas).

Psychological Approach

Renaissance & Age of Reason

Disorders arise from problems in thinking, feeling, or perceiving.

  • Renaissance: Humanistic focus on conflict (Johann Weyer).
  • Reform Movement: Scientific method, deinstitutionalization, community care.

Interactional Approach

Modern Era

The Bio-Psycho-Social Model

Recognizes that biological, psychological, and social factors interact to influence disorders.

Factors Underlying Behavior

Understanding the etiology (cause) of disorders requires looking at biological mechanics, psychological patterns, and social forces.

Neurotransmitters & Genetics

This model focuses on faulty genes, endocrine imbalances, and problems in signal transmission across the synapse.

  • GABA Low activity linked to Anxiety.
  • Dopamine Excess activity linked to Schizophrenia.
  • Serotonin Low activity linked to Depression.
Genetic factors typically involve a combination of genes creating a predisposition, rather than a single gene.

Neurotransmitter Activity Levels

Major Psychological Disorders

Browse the classifications to understand symptoms and subtypes. Click any card for full details.