4.1.1 Definitions of Abnormality: Deviation From Social Norms

Deviation from social norms

The breaking of implicit rules and straying from what is considered acceptable in society

• Subjective - Social norms vary
• Cultures - Have different social norms
• Time - Social norms change over time
• Context - abnormal because of the situation or environment

A strength of this definition is its practical application in diagnosing antisocial personality disorder (APD) in clinical settings. For instance, a key characteristic of APD is the inability to adhere to culturally accepted ethical behaviour, often resulting in recklessness and aggression. This highlights the usefulness of this definition in identifying and understanding abnormal behaviour.

A limitation is that social norms are culturally relative. Someone from one cultural group might consider a person from another group as abnormal based on their own standards. For example, hearing voices is accepted in some cultures but would be seen as abnormal in the UK. This can lead to difficulties for individuals living in a culture different from their own.