Journey into Abnormal Psychology

Abnormal Psychology: Past and Present - Key Concepts

• Abnormal psychology is the scientific study used by clinical practitioners to detect, assess, and treat abnormal patterns of functioning.
• Defining psychological abnormality is a difficult task, with no universally accepted definition.
• The "four Ds" - deviance, distress, dysfunction, and danger - are commonly used features to define psychological abnormality.
• Deviance refers to behavior that deviates from societal norms.
• Distress refers to subjective feelings of discomfort or emotional pain.
• Dysfunction refers to impaired functioning in daily life activities.
• Danger refers to the potential harm to oneself or others.
• The four Ds provide a useful starting point to explore psychological abnormality.
• However, the four Ds have limitations and may not capture the complexity of all abnormal patterns of functioning.
• Abnormal psychological functioning can be deviant, distressing, dysfunctional, and potentially dangerous.
• Abnormal psychology aims to understand and address these abnormal patterns of functioning.
• Clinical scientists and practitioners rely on research and clinical expertise to identify, assess, and treat psychological abnormalities.