Deviation from ideal mental health

1. Deviation from ideal mental health Defining abnormality

2. Learning Objectives • To outline the “deviation from ideal mental health” definition of abnormality • To explain the limitations of this definition • To answer an exam question on this definition

3. So far… • We have looked at: • Deviation from social norms – breaking “social rules” so behaving in a way that isn’t acceptable in society • Failure to function adequately – can’t “function” and cope with every day life – i.e. can’t hold down a job or look after self Next is…

4. Deviation from ideal mental health • Jahoda (1958) identified 6 criteria that are necessary for ‘ideal’ mental health • She said that if you didn’t possess these you were abnormal • You are “deviating” (different) from ideal mental health

5. Jahoda • Using the hand-out, outline the 6 different characteristics that Jahoda believed demonstrated “ideal mental health” • Provide examples to back up the descriptions • LIMITATIONS – cut and stick into correct order – read through and complete exam question

6. Limitations of this explanation • Who defines ideal mental health? – not fair to judge on these 6 criteria • The difficulty of self-actualisation – hardly anyone fulfils full potential • Possible benefits of stress – some work better under stress • Cultural issues – mainly applies to western cultures