Abnormal

Abnormal behavior is defined as behavior that is not within the norm. The first way to describe abnormal behavior is to use the statistical definition. Frequently occurring behavior would be considered normal and behavior that is rare would be abnormal in a particular population. For example a person in America may collect erasers. Statistically this would be so unusual in number of participates it would not be measured within the norms for the U.S. However, collecting erasers would not be considered an abnormal activity.

A second way to describe abnormal behavior is the social norm deviance. This is a behavior that goes against the norms and standards of society in which the individual lives. This type of definition for abnormal versus normal behavior hinges on the geographical area in which the behavior is being considered. It can be measured as a situational context or a subjective discomfort. An example of situational context could be the Baptist religion within the U.S. In the Northern states there is an expectation that a person demonstrates quite and controlled behavior during the religious ceremony. If a person is loud or yells out they are considered out of the norm. However the Baptist religion in the Southern part of the U.S., loud singing and movement, including clapping of hands, is considered a norm. If a person were to sit quietly they would be considered to be abnormal in behavior. One other way to describe abnormal behavior is by the subjective discomfort. Subjective discomfort is when a person feels extreme distress while engaging in a particular situation. For example Mary has distress when around the water and she feels great anxiety. This would be considered abnormal behavior because most people enjoy the water and consider it a fun activity.

The final way that behavior is considered to be abnormal is the inability to function normally. This kind of behavior is called maladaptive in which the person finds it hard to adapt to the demands of day to day living. Their behavior is maladaptive and for example they are unable to go to work or pay their bills. This maladaptive behavior may be due to the use of drugs or alcohol making them not normal because their activities surrounding the use of the drug causing them to not be able to function with daily expectations.