Question

"Normal" (normalcy) is a term loosely tossed around in our culture.

Chapter 12 talks about possible criteria to indicate what is "abnormal". (Essentials of Psychology 6e By Douglas Bernstein)

List and discuss these criteria. Explain in detail, in at least 150 words, use examples, and references.

Answer 1

There are lots of definitions defining abnormal behaviour. It largely depends on the culture, religion and societal make-up. People become abnormal for various reasons and exhibit socially unfit and sometimes violent behaviours. According to Douglas Bernstein people who are genius and have extraordinary talents that differentiate them from normal people, people who violate the set norm of a society or culture are normally considered to be abnormal.

People who put themselves to personal suffering and make others suffer without realising the pain of self and others also fall in abnormal category. For example people, people who sexually abuse others undergo far more suffering than the victims. He is also talking about the socio-cultural context which determines whether one’s behaviour is normal or abnormal. Finally, according to him thoughts, behaviours, emotions that affect the lives of other people or disturb other people are considered to be abnormal behaviours. For example two people kissing in the public is a normal behaviour in western countries but not in Saudi Arabia or India.