Introduction to Psychopathology
Krista Moreau
Advanced Abnormal Psychology/PSYCH 515
November 15, 2010
Dr. Larry Cammarata
Introduction to Psychopathology
Abnormal psychology is a part of psychology that studies atypical behaviors, ideas and feelings. It involves knowledge of the nature, causes and treatment of mental disorders. As stated in Chapter One of Abnormal Psychology, 14th Edition, there is not one universal meaning for the words “abnormal” or “disorder”. The commonality is all definitions refer to problematic or flawed. While there are obvious components of abnormality, there is no single behavior that makes someone abnormal (Butcher, 2010). Understanding the historical and contemporary views of abnormal behavior and psychopathology is critical to truly understanding the conditions of psychopathology and psychological disorders. The following will examine the historical and contemporary views, give a brief overview of how abnormal psychology has evolved into a scientific discipline, and lastly assess the theoretical viewpoints and interpretations of the biological, psychosocial, and sociocultural models (White, 1948).
The historical origins of abnormal psychology date back to somewhere around 460 B.C. where the Greek physician Hippocrates attempted to make insanity known in medicine as a disease of the brain. From the second century to the sixteenth century writings of medical men show insightful opinions on insanity and compassion for those that fell victim to it. It also presents the need and wants for gentle approaches to return the mind to a point of peacefulness. However, during this time, the public was not concerned nor were they open minded which left these medical voices powerless.
There were no hospitals for the insane or mentally ill until the end of the eighteenth century. There were also no institutions or supporting organizations to assist those who were open minded enough to recognize the nature of mental disorders....