Psychology essay
Psychopathology is the scientific study of psychological disorder, however it can be difficult to diagnose psychopathology abnormality. For example Doctors can identify certain signs of a physical disorder to determine whether someone is ill, where as in psychological disorders how can a psychologist identify if someone is abnormal when abnormality between every cultures and each individual.
Deviation from the ideal mental heath can be seen as averting from society's definition of 'normal'. Psychologists take this idea of 'normal' and can identify who deviates from this ideal as abnormal, they also suggest that we have the ideal mental health if we possess its criteria:
Self-attitudes; when you have a high self esteem and strong identity. For example knowing who you are.
Personal growth; we self actualise and reach our full potential.
Integration; coping with stressful situations. For example having lots of coping mechanisms. Accurate perception of reality; having a realistic view of the world and your self. For example people with anorexia do not have a realistic perception of themselves.
Autonomy; being independent and self regulating, for example being able to go to the bathroom properly.
Mastery of environment; successfully work, love and enjoy leisure. Anyone without these qualities would be vulnerable to a mental disorder.
Failure to function is the opposite of deviation, as if you do not meet this criteria you can be classified as abnormal. The word 'function' refers to being able to cope with everyday life such as eating regularly, washing clothes, getting up to go to work or an activity, being able to communicate with others, having control over your life, ect... The criteria for failure to function includes:
Maladaptivenss; behavior that prevents someone from achieving their life goals. For example earning a living.
Irrationality; when an individual’s perception seem to differ from reality. For example someone with...