Concept of Abnormality and Classification (DSM/ICD) Abnormality: An deviation from what is typically expected or normal for a specific psychological ch...
Abnormality:
An deviation from what is typically expected or normal for a specific psychological characteristic or behavior.
Not being typical or as expected in a particular context.
A departure from the norm, which could be cultural, environmental, or developmental.
Classification:
Grouping related psychological characteristics or behaviors under a specific category or diagnosis.
Creating a common name for a group of disorders with similar symptoms.
Helps us understand and communicate mental health conditions more effectively.
DSM/ICD:
DSM (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual) is a comprehensive diagnostic system used by mental health professionals to diagnose mental disorders and substance use disorders.
ICD (International Classification of Mental Disorders) is a global standard for classifying mental and behavioral disorders used by researchers, clinicians, and policymakers worldwide.
Key Points:
Abnormality is not synonymous with pathology or dysfunction.
Abnormalities can be intentional or unintentional.
Classification is based on clinical presentation and symptoms, not on the cause or prognosis of the disorder.
Both DSM/ICD are important tools for understanding, diagnosing, and treating mental health disorders.
Examples:
A person with a chronic anxiety disorder may exhibit symptoms such as excessive fear and avoidance of certain situations.
A person with borderline personality disorder might display intense emotions, difficulty controlling impulses, and rigid self-image.
A person with schizophrenia might exhibit hallucinations, delusions, and disorganized speech patterns