Working Definition of Abnormality. Abnormality Is Defined

¶ … working definition of abnormality.

Abnormality is defined as 'atypicality' or a deviation from the norm (McLeod 2008). Deviation may be viewed in a positive or negative light. In our culture, someone who has a high IQ is viewed as deviant in a positive manner, while someone who is deviant because he or she is bipolar is viewed as deviant in a negative manner. But some modes of deviancy, such as depression, are so common a large percentage of the population suffers from the condition (McLeod 2008). Other forms of abnormality, like seeing visions, are considered highly deviant today in a negative fashion, but were viewed in a positive light as a form of divine insight in ages past, and still are in some cultures.

Defining abnormality merely as violation of social norms can be a poor way to judge a patient, given that homosexuality was once classified as a mental disorder and women dissatisfied with their suburban lifestyles in the 1950s were often classified as mentally ill (McLeod 2008). A state of being that causes distress to the individual is often said to be the best way to define clinical abnormality. However, this is not necessarily the best way to define the condition, either. While it may be an acceptable method of identifying depressed individuals, who are often dissatisfied with their current mental state, individuals suffering from mania or schizophrenia may believe themselves to be 'special' in a positive fashion. Some persons exhibiting certain types of personality disorders, such as schizoid personality disorder, may not feel as if there is something missing in their life because they feel no need to 'connect' with people, emotionally. However, in these instances, difficulties with basic functioning in society, such as maintaining adequate hygiene or obtaining and keeping a job, suggest that such conditions fall under the designation of abnormal mental disorders.

Part 2: Brief "case study" scenario:

Jamie exhibits many signs of schizophrenia. Poor hygiene, the inability to hold a regular job, and delusions of grandeur with a religious emphasis are all common features of schizophrenia. Withdrawal from friends, family, and formerly pleasurable activities; a sense of things not being 'real;' anxiety; anorexia (loss of appetite); an inability to engage in acts of basic self-care; difficulties in finding and keeping meaningful work and social connections; delusions, hallucinations, and a sense of being controlled or persecuted are all common symptoms of the disorder (Dryden-Edwards 2011:1).

Jamie is suffering from almost all of these symptoms. Being homeless is not in and of itself a mental disorder, but it is an indication that Jamie has had difficulty finding paid employment. The fact that he works as a street preacher suggests that he does not see his state of homelessness and disconnection from society as troubling. His belief that he has a direct connection to God suggests he feels controlled by outside forces and a sense of 'specialness.' The direct 'voice' of God he hears indicates auditory hallucinations.