Outline and evaluate attempts to define abnormality

A more extreme but somewhat more realistic and practical explanation is that ‘failing to function adequately’, as in not being adaptive or being unable to cope with the state of affairs. However, this approach to defining abnormality has also been criticised as it depends on subjective assessments, is effected by cultural relativism and it doesn’t really differentiate abnormal behaviour from behaviour that is non-conformist, unconventional or just plain eccentric.

Marie Jahoda (1958) suggested another definition which is that by looking for a lack of or a deviation from ideal mental health, which will highlight those who need treatment. According to Jahoda, there are six criteria that characterize an ideal mental health:

• Positive self esteem and a strong sense of identity
• Personal growth and development
• Ability to cope with stressful situations (integration)
• Autonomy and independence
• Accurate perception of reality
• Successful mastery of the environment

Even though this approach may perhaps be the best designed, it does have limitations too, for instance the fact that in relation to the criteria nearly every single person would be considered abnormal as rarely anyone could fulfil all criterion. Though Jahoda did say they are just ‘ideal’ criteria it would also have to be considered that you can’t know how many of or to what extent you have to lack these criteria in order to be considered abnormal or in need of cure. Also, Jahoda came up with this definition by comparing mental health with physical health, looking at them as similar issues. However this may not be entirely effective, as mental illnesses can be as a result of life experiences rather than physical deficits and this would have to be dealt with differently.

As all attempts to define abnormality are only successful to an extent and with rather strong weaknesses, a combination of methods is usually used and even if mistakes are made, they are helpful in making sure that in future it doesn’t happen again and knowledge is broadened thereby.