Question

What is an operational definition? What is reliability? What is validity? How are these concepts applied to research into abnormal behavior?

Answer 1

Operational definition: Operational definition indicates amount of variable. Suppose IQ is the indication of amount of intelligence. Higher IQ indicates higher intelligence and Lower IQ indicates lower intelligence. So IQ is the operational definition for intelligence.

Reliability: Suppose we are checking a performance of a device. Then that device must show same type of output for each and every time.

Example : We are checking a weighing machine. I put a object on that weighing machine. That is showing 600 grams weight for 1st time, 2nd time, 3rd time etc., Then that weighing machine have reliability. Suppose that showed 600 grams for first time, 650 for second time and 550 for third time then that weighing machine don't have reliability.

Validity: Our measuring device should show actual value of variable. Then we can say that measuring device is valid.

Example: Suppose i put 500 grams weight on weighing machine. Then machine should show 500 grams only. Then we can confirm that is valid. If failed that is invalid

Operational definition of abnormal behavior:

Abnormal behavior is defined by irrational, irregular,unexpected pattern of behavior. Operational definition of abnormal behavior is how many times they are showing abnormal behavior in one day/ one hour. Based on that number we can estimate the intensity of abnormal behavior.

Reliability of abnormal behavior:

If patient showing same type symptoms each time then that behavior is reliably abnormal behavior. We can diagnose that disease based on that symptoms. If symptoms are changing irregularly then that behavior don't have reliability. We can't say what type of abnormal behavior is that.

Example : Patient should show hallucinations, imaginations for 6 months to diagnose schizophrenia.

Validity in abnormal behavior:

If patient showing symptoms to gain rewards, avoid punishment, gain sympathy etc., is not valid abnormal behavior. Because really he don't have any mental disorder. He is just acting in that way for his personal gain. Then mental disorder is not valid.