Question

Write a short note in 50-60 words.

Criteria of abnormal behaviour

Answer 1

Adjustment changes according to the situation. Frustration, 'burn out', etc., contribute to maladjustment. Abnormal behaviour is some behaviour that deviates markedly from what is considered as appropriate or acceptable behaviour. It is some behaviour that is socially unacceptable, distressing, self defeating, and causes some harm to the person(s).

The criteria for abnormality are as follows -

1. Deviance - This includes statistical deviance e.g., IQ below 70 will be considered as intellectually deficient as the normal IQ is above 70. It also includes socio-cultural deviance. However, cultural relativity must be considered for e.g., being homeless is considered vagrancy in some cultures (abnormal behaviours) while among nomadic tribes e.g., Gypsies it is considered normal.
2. Personal distress - It refers to the subjective feelings of the person in response to discomforting situations e.g., anxiety, depression, aggression, insomnia. Such individuals may perform daily activities adequately and appear normal to others but are miserable sometimes.
3. Impaired functioning - The person is unable to adequately fulfill expected roles in the family, community, at work, etc. e.g., severe depression or phobias.