Features of Abnormal Behaviour

Abnormal behaviour is often described using four features called the 4 Ds. The 4 Ds are deviance, distress, dysfunction, and danger. An extra feature, unexpectedness, helps show when a reaction is out of proportion.

"The behaviour which causes people significant distress and/or causes them to harm themselves and others, and/or harms their ability to function in daily life is considered abnormal" - Cicarelli and Meyer, 2007

1. Danger:

• Deviance means behaviour that is very different from social norms.
• It is extreme, unusual, or bizarre in a given culture.
• A small deviation is not called abnormal.
• What is deviant changes across cultures and time.

2. Personal Distress:

• Personal distress means the person feels strong emotional suffering.
• It includes intense anxiety, depression, or exaggerated fear.
• It is abnormal when it is too strong or lasts too long.

3. Dysfunction:

• Dysfunction means behaviour that disturbs daily functioning.
• It harms work, studies, family life, or relationships.
• Not all unusual behaviour is dysfunctional or abnormal.

4. Danger:

• Danger means behaviour that can harm the person or others.
• It includes suicidal behaviour or unprovoked violence.
• Not all people with mental disorders are dangerous.

• Abnormal behaviour is explained by the 4 Ds – Deviance, Distress, Dysfunction, and Danger.
• Deviance: Behaviour that is extreme, unusual, or against social norms (considering cultural differences).
• Distress: Behaviour that causes personal suffering, anxiety, or emotional discomfort for a long time.
• Dysfunction: Behaviour that interferes with daily activities and normal functioning in life.
• Danger: Behaviour that harms or threatens the safety of oneself or others.