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.

Test your knowledge on abnormal psychology with this quiz! Explore the past and present of abnormal psychology and learn about the scientific study of psychological abnormalities. Discover how clinical practitioners detect, assess, and treat abnormal patterns of functioning.