Response Posts should read approximately 200 words in APA format, including any citations
Peer name:Lila Davis
Dysfunction is defined as a behavior that interferes with daily functioning (Comer & Comer, 2021). Being dysfunctional or engaging in dysfunctional behaviors alone does not equal abnormal behavior. To be defined as abnormal, the behavior must meet all four criteria: deviance, distress, dysfunction, and danger (Comer & Comer, 2021). According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (2013), abnormal behavior must also be considered a statistical rarity and a violation of social norms.
There are several behaviors that meet the criteria of being dysfunctional but are not considered abnormal behaviors, which is why there are four criteria in the definition. Social norms also factor into whether or not a behavior is considered abnormal or even dysfunctional. If someone frequently abuses alcohol or drugs but can maintain a job and a social life, the behavior is not regarded as dysfunctional by societal standards. Another example is that a person can abuse drugs or alcohol and still not be diagnosed with abnormal behavior because substance and alcohol abuse is not an uncommon behavior. Even though it is a deviant behavior that can cause distress, dysfunction, and danger, these behaviors are not a statistical rarity or a violation of social norms.
Overall, dysfunction alone does not equal abnormal behavior because of what society defines as dysfunctional and abnormal. There are four criteria required to be considered an abnormal behavior, as well as the subjectiveness of being considered a statistical rarity and a violation of social norms.
References
American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed.). https://doi.org/10.1176/appi.books.9780890425596
Comer, R.J. & Comer, J. (2021). Abnormal psychology (11th ed.). Worth Publishing
Response Post: Understanding Dysfunction in Abnormal Behavior
Dysfunction is a crucial aspect often considered in understanding abnormal behavior. However, it alone is insufficient to define abnormality. As Lila Davis adeptly outlines, dysfunction, while significant, must be considered alongside other criteria such as deviance, distress, and danger (Comer & Comer, 2021). This multifaceted approach is essential in comprehensively assessing abnormal behavior.
Davis rightly emphasizes the role of societal norms in defining dysfunction. Social norms play a pivotal role in determining what is considered abnormal. For instance, substance abuse may not be deemed dysfunctional if the individual can maintain societal functioning, such as employment and social relationships (Comer & Comer, 2021). This highlights the intricate interplay between individual behavior and societal expectations.
Moreover, the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) underscores the importance of considering statistical rarity and violation of social norms in defining abnormal behavior (American Psychiatric Association, 2013). These criteria provide a broader context for evaluating dysfunction within abnormal psychology.
In conclusion, dysfunction is a crucial component in understanding abnormal behavior, but it must be viewed within the framework of multiple criteria. Davis’s analysis sheds light on the complexities involved, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive approach in identifying and defining abnormal behavior.
References
American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed.). https://doi.org/10.1176/appi.books.9780890425596
Comer, R.J. & Comer, J. (2021). Abnormal psychology (11th ed.). Worth Publishing