Definition & Criteria of Abnormal

A detailed Summary of Definition & Criteria of Abnormal

Abnormal psychology is the branch of the discipline that seeks to describe, explain, and predict abnormal human behavior. Naturally, a definition must precede any explanation or prediction of a phenomenon. Due to its complexity, abnormal psychologists have five criteria they use in defining a potentially abnormal behavior.

First, abnormal lies outside the statistical norm. In looking at a bell curve, abnormality is that which strays too far from the average; it lies on the peripheries of th

There are differing approaches to abnormal behavior. Behavioral and psychodynamic perspectives are common ones. Behavioral models perceive abnormality as the development of maladaptive behavior patterns. Behaviorists seek to remedy the problem by non-reinforcement of negative behaviors and positive reinforcement of desirable ones. While behaviorists have no interest in the cause of abnormal behavior, psychodynamic therapists view it as a crucial component in the healing process. Psychodynam

Some common words found in the essay are:
, abnormal behavior, maladaptive behavior, models perceive,

Approximate Word count = 334
Approximate Pages = 1 (250 words per page double spaced)

Category: Science

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Definition & Criteria of Abnormal

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