Question

Society: In my mind, the difference between what is labeled "normal" behavior and what is labeled "abnormal" behavior has a lot to do with how society view behavior. However, it also has to do with the level of psychological soundness. Psychological soundness can be determined by many factors including culture, religion, morals, values, worldview, etc. However, in the same way we discussed grief last week, there can be a universal judgment for soundness. How do we determine what that is? Could person who deliberately ordered the murder of hundreds of people, such as former Iraqi leader Saddam Hussein, be psychologically sound? Why or why not? Answer this question with one or more theories mentioned in this week's reading.

Answer 1

Mental disorder or mental health can be defined as a pattern of recurring behaviour that causes maladaption. It is considered to be a mental disorder if it interferes with normal functioning or daily routine of an individual. A mental disorder cannot be diagnosed without the symptoms exhibited by the patient, meeting each of the criteria mentioned in the Diagnostic Statistical Manual for mental disorders which is published by the American Psychological Association. A psychologist uses various techniques for diagnosis.

The first being, 'mental status examination', it is an interview sorts where the client is questioned and interviewed by the psychologist to understand the mental status of the client through physical appearance and behaviour. The psychologist then digs into family history and case study. A few psychometric tests may also be administered for better understanding of the problem. A diagnosis cannot be concluded until symptoms match the criteria mentioned in the DSM.