The symptoms cause significant emotional pain or suffering for the individual.
There is no single rule for what makes a behavior "abnormal." Instead, psychologists often use the to evaluate if a person needs help:
Experts view mental illness through different "lenses," which often combine into a —looking at biology, psychology, and social environment together. Abnormal Psychology
Abnormal psychology is the scientific study of atypical patterns of thought, emotion, and behavior that may indicate a mental health disorder. Rather than labeling or judging, the field aims to understand the symptoms, causes, and treatments of these conditions to provide support and improve well-being. 🧠 Defining "Abnormality"
Examines how distorted thinking patterns (like extreme pessimism) lead to psychological distress. The symptoms cause significant emotional pain or suffering
The behavior poses a threat to the individual or to others.
Focuses on genetics, brain chemistry (neurotransmitters), and brain structure. Rather than labeling or judging, the field aims
Suggests that abnormal behaviors are learned through reinforcement or conditioning.