Unit 1: English Summary – Abnormal Psychology

Abnormal Psychology: Concept, Criteria of Abnormality, and Classification (DSM-5)

Introduction

Abnormal Psychology is a crucial subfield within psychology that focuses on studying, diagnosing, and treating psychological disorders. It seeks to define what is considered “abnormal,” understand the underlying causes of mental disorders, and classify them systematically to facilitate effective diagnosis and treatment. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5), serves as the primary tool for mental health professionals in identifying and categorizing mental disorders.

This summary will explore the concept of abnormality, criteria for determining abnormal behavior, and an introduction to the classification of disorders in the DSM-5. It will also discuss the importance of diagnosis and assessment in fostering sensitivity towards individual diversity and various approaches to treatment.

Understanding Abnormal Psychology

Definition of Abnormal Psychology

Abnormal Psychology examines thoughts, emotions, and behaviors that deviate significantly from societal norms and lead to distress or impairment. It involves the study of psychopathology (mental disorders), psychological distress, and maladaptive behaviors.

Mental health professionals face challenges in defining what is “abnormal” since cultural, social, and personal perspectives influence perceptions of normality. Historical interpretations of abnormal behavior have ranged from supernatural beliefs to medical models, leading to evolving diagnostic approaches.

Key Questions in Abnormal Psychology

1.     What constitutes abnormal behavior?

2.    How can abnormal behavior be classified and diagnosed?

3.    What causes psychological disorders?

4.    What treatments are effective for different mental disorders?

Understanding abnormal psychology allows individuals to assess their behavior and that of others, promoting self-awareness and sensitivity toward mental health issues.

Criteria for Determining Abnormality

Determining whether a behavior is abnormal requires considering multiple criteria. The DSM-5 and psychological researchers suggest several defining characteristics of abnormality:

1. Statistical Rarity

Behavior that significantly deviates from the statistical average is often considered abnormal. For example, extremely high or low IQ scores are statistically rare and may be classified as abnormal. However, rarity alone is not sufficient, as some unusual traits (e.g., high intelligence) are not considered pathological.

2. Violation of Social Norms

Abnormal behavior often deviates from the expected norms and values of a given culture or society. For instance, talking to oneself in public or engaging in aggressive outbursts may be seen as abnormal in certain cultural contexts.

3. Personal Distress

Psychological distress is a crucial factor in determining abnormality. If a behavior leads to significant emotional pain or suffering (e.g., chronic anxiety, depression, or self-harm), it is likely considered abnormal.

4. Maladaptive Behavior

Abnormality can be identified when behavior interferes with an individual’s ability to function effectively in daily life. This includes disruptions in social relationships, occupational functioning, or self-care (e.g., severe depression leading to the inability to work or perform daily tasks).

5. Impairment in Functioning

When an individual experiences significant impairment in personal, social, or professional life due to their behavior, it may be classified as abnormal. For example, a person with schizophrenia might struggle with reality perception, leading to severe dysfunction.

6. Danger to Self or Others

Behaviors that pose a threat to an individual or others are considered abnormal. This includes suicidal tendencies, violent aggression, or severe self-neglect.

Since no single criterion can define abnormality, psychologists rely on a combination of these factors when diagnosing mental disorders.

Classification of Abnormality: Introduction to DSM-5

What is DSM-5?

The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5), is a comprehensive classification system developed by the American Psychiatric Association (APA). It provides standardized criteria for diagnosing mental disorders based on research, clinical expertise, and statistical analysis.

The DSM-5 helps mental health professionals:

·       Identify and categorize disorders based on symptoms and clinical features.

·       Improve reliability and validity in psychiatric diagnosis.

·       Provide a common language for psychologists, psychiatrists, and researchers worldwide.

·       Guide treatment planning and intervention strategies.

Key Features of DSM-5

1. Categorical and Dimensional Approach

·       Disorders are classified into categories, but the DSM-5 also recognizes that symptoms exist along a continuum (e.g., severity levels in anxiety and mood disorders).

2. Multi-Axial System Removed

·       Unlike earlier versions, DSM-5 no longer follows the five-axis system (e.g., Axis I for clinical disorders, Axis II for personality disorders, etc.). Instead, it integrates conditions into broader diagnostic categories.

3. Cultural Sensitivity and Diversity

·       DSM-5 acknowledges cultural variations in diagnosing disorders, emphasizing the need for clinicians to consider cultural differences in symptom presentation.

4. Harmonization with ICD-11

·       The DSM-5 aligns with the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-11) for better consistency across global healthcare systems.

Major Categories of Mental Disorders in DSM-5

The DSM-5 organizes disorders into major diagnostic categories. Some of the most significant categories include:

1. Neurodevelopmental Disorders

·       Includes disorders with early childhood onset, such as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), and Intellectual Disabilities.

·       Symptoms: Impaired communication, repetitive behaviors (ASD); difficulty with attention and hyperactivity (ADHD).

2. Schizophrenia Spectrum and Other Psychotic Disorders

·       Characterized by distortions in thinking, perception, and emotional regulation.

·       Disorders: Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective Disorder, Delusional Disorder.

·       Symptoms: Hallucinations, delusions, disorganized speech.

3. Mood Disorders

·       Includes depressive and bipolar disorders.

·       Disorders: Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), Bipolar Disorder.

·       Symptoms: Persistent sadness, suicidal thoughts (MDD); mood swings between mania and depression (Bipolar Disorder).

4. Anxiety Disorders

·       Disorders involving excessive fear and anxiety.

·       Includes Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), Panic Disorder, Social Anxiety Disorder.

·       Symptoms: Persistent worry, panic attacks, avoidance behavior.

5. Obsessive-Compulsive and Related Disorders

·       Includes Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Hoarding Disorder, Body Dysmorphic Disorder.

·       Symptoms: Repetitive thoughts and compulsive behaviors.

6. Trauma- and Stressor-Related Disorders

·       Disorders caused by exposure to trauma.

·       Includes Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Acute Stress Disorder.

·       Symptoms: Flashbacks, hypervigilance, emotional numbing.

7. Dissociative Disorders

·       Involves disruptions in memory, identity, or consciousness.

·       Includes Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID), Dissociative Amnesia.

·       Symptoms: Multiple personalities (DID), memory loss.

8. Feeding and Eating Disorders

·       Includes Anorexia Nervosa, Bulimia Nervosa, Binge-Eating Disorder.

·       Symptoms: Restrictive eating, binge-purge behaviors, unhealthy body image.

9. Personality Disorders

·       Enduring, inflexible personality traits leading to dysfunction.

·       Includes Borderline Personality Disorder, Antisocial Personality Disorder.

·       Symptoms: Impulsivity, unstable relationships (BPD); lack of empathy, disregard for rules (APD).

10. Substance-Related and Addictive Disorders

·       Disorders involving addiction to substances or behaviors.

·       Includes Alcohol Use Disorder, Opioid Use Disorder, Gambling Disorder.

·       Symptoms: Dependence, withdrawal symptoms, compulsive behavior.

Conclusion

Understanding abnormal psychology is essential in recognizing mental disorders and developing sensitivity toward individual differences. The criteria of abnormality, such as statistical rarity, social norms, and personal distress, help define psychological disorders. The DSM-5 serves as a standardized system for diagnosing and classifying these disorders, guiding treatment and intervention.

Through this knowledge, students can better understand their behavior and that of others, fostering empathy and informed discussions on mental health. Furthermore, applying assessment and classification skills can aid in accurate diagnosis and treatment planning, ensuring valid and reliable therapeutic approaches for those affected by mental health conditions.