Psychology and Abnormal Behavior

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Questions and Answers

Which of the following describes 'deviation from social norms' in relation to abnormal behavior?

Behavior that significantly differs from accepted societal standards. (correct)

Behavior that is validated by medical diagnoses.

Behavior that is harmful to both the individual and society.

Abnormal behavior that is statistically rare.

What is one of the four criteria psychologists use to identify abnormal behavior?

Deviance (correct)

Disruption

Disturbance

Density

What factor can influence the definition of abnormality based on social norms?

Legal regulations

Socioeconomic status

Cultural context (correct)

Age of individuals

Which example illustrates how social norms can evolve over time?

Changing views on tattoos and body modifications. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT one of the '4 D's' used to assess abnormal behavior?

Dependency Signup and view all the answers

Culture-bound syndromes refer to:

Abnormal behavior patterns specific to certain cultures. Signup and view all the answers

What challenge does the social norms approach present when identifying abnormal behavior?

Its definitions can vary over time. Signup and view all the answers

How might cultural differences affect perceptions of abnormal behavior?

Certain behaviors may be normal in one culture but considered abnormal in another. Signup and view all the answers

Which statement best describes excessive acquisition in the context of hoarding disorder?

It includes acquiring items that are not needed or lack available space. Signup and view all the answers

What does good or fair insight indicate regarding an individual's perception of hoarding behaviors?

The individual recognizes their behaviors as problematic. Signup and view all the answers

What characterizes absent insight or delusional beliefs in the context of hoarding disorder?

The individual is entirely convinced their beliefs and behaviors are non-problematic. Signup and view all the answers

Which criterion is NOT associated with determining a diagnosis of hoarding disorder using the DSM classification system?

Perceived utility of items. Signup and view all the answers

Approximately what percentage of individuals with hoarding disorder exhibit excessive acquisition?

80 to 90 percent. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following describes poor insight in the context of hoarding disorder?

The individual is mostly convinced their behaviors are not problematic. Signup and view all the answers

How do clinicians use the DSM classification system when diagnosing hoarding disorder?

By matching observed behaviors with a set of specific criteria. Signup and view all the answers

What is a defining feature of hoarding disorder regarding the physical space in a home?

Excessive clutter hinders the intended use of living areas. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of the WHODAS?

To assess health status and functional impairment Signup and view all the answers

Which domain of functioning does NOT belong to the WHODAS framework?

Emotional Stability Signup and view all the answers

One criticism of diagnostic labels is that they:

Imply a strict division between normal and abnormal behavior Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a domain that WHODAS assesses?

Participants in Community Activities Signup and view all the answers

What is a key aspect of the criticism regarding the illusion of explanation provided by diagnostic labels?

They oversimplify complex human behaviors. Signup and view all the answers

According to the criticisms of diagnostic classification, abnormal behavior exists on what kind of spectrum?

A continuous spectrum with multiple gradations Signup and view all the answers

In the context of the WHODAS, which of the following activities falls under the 'Life activities' domain?

Completing a school assignment Signup and view all the answers

What does the 'Getting along' domain in WHODAS primarily assess?

Interpersonal relationships and interactions Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Psychological Health and Abnormal Behavior

Judgments about mental health are subjective and vary among individuals and professionals.
Formal diagnoses of psychological disorders are made by mental health professionals using established criteria.

Criteria of Abnormal Behavior: The "4 D's"

Deviance is assessed through various lenses, including:
- Deviation from Social Norms: Behavior is abnormal if it significantly differs from societal standards, which evolve over time.
- Statistical Frequency: Rare behaviors may be considered abnormal due to their infrequency.
- Deviation from an Ideal: Comparison against a societal ideal standard may define abnormal behavior.

Cultural Influences on Norms

Culture: Different cultures and subcultures shape distinct social norms.
Culture-Bound Syndromes: Specific behavioral patterns may be abnormal in one culture but normal in another.

WHO Disability Assessment Schedule (WHODAS)

A comprehensive tool developed to assess health status and functional impairment across cultures, covering six domains:
- Cognition: Understanding and communication skills.
- Mobility: Physical movement and accessibility.
- Self-care: Daily personal hygiene and independent living abilities.
- Getting along: Social interactions and relationships.
- Life activities: Engagement in domestic tasks, leisure, work, and education.
- Participation: Involvement in community activities.

Criticisms of Diagnostic Classification

Falsification of Reality: Diagnostic labels may oversimplify the spectrum between normal and abnormal behavior, neglecting the continuum aspect.
Illusion of Explanation: Diagnostic terms may create false explanations (e.g., linking hallucinations directly to schizophrenia without exploring other factors).

Specifics on Hoarding Disorder

Hoarding may manifest with excessive acquisition of items, often accompanied by difficulty in discarding possessions.
Insight levels vary among individuals with hoarding:
- Good or Fair Insight: Recognizes problematic behaviors.
- Poor Insight: Beliefs about hoarding are acknowledged as problematic but inconsistently accepted.
- Absent Insight/Delusional Beliefs: Firmly believes hoarding behaviors are not problematic despite contrary evidence.

Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM)

Clinicians utilize DSM criteria to match client symptoms to specific mental disorders, such as hoarding disorder or schizophrenia, guiding diagnoses based on defined behavioral symptoms.

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Description

This quiz explores concepts related to psychological health, focusing on distinguishing between normal and abnormal behaviors. It raises questions about judgment in psychological assessment and the perception of mental health conditions. Ideal for students seeking to understand the complexities of psychological evaluations.