Discussion 1
Defining Normal and Abnormal
At this stage in your study of human psychology, you might be wondering, "I can often recognize what I consider to be abnormal behavior, so why is it so difficult to define?" As you found in this week's assigned reading, some of the issues involved in distinguishing abnormal from normal behavior are complex and fraught with controversy. Additionally, the definition of abnormal behavior can change with time.
To prepare:
• Review the definitions of abnormal and abnormality in Chapter 1 of your text.
• Analyze how the definitions align, overlap, or differ.
• Reflect on how these statements or others might have changed your ideas of what constitutes abnormal behavior.
With these thoughts in mind:
a comparison of normal and abnormal behavior, drawing from your original definition of abnormal behavior and from the definitions put forth in the Learning Resources. Include any challenges you might see in using these definitions to guide the assessment of your clients.
Be sure to support your postings and responses with specific references from the Learning Resources.
Discussion 2
Identifying Theoretical Perspectives
Considering concepts and phenomena from different theoretical perspectives can broaden your understanding. In this Discussion, you will consider maladaptive behaviors from several different theoretical perspectives or viewpoints.
To prepare:
• Review this week's Learning Resources. Focus on the causal factors and viewpoints in Chapter 3 of Abnormal Psychology.
• Be sure to read the examples for each of the different causal viewpoints and factors.
• Think about the effect of taking different viewpoints on diagnosis and assessment.
• Choose one psychological disorder and put the name of the disorder in the subject line of your post.
With these thoughts in mind:
a description of one psychological disorder and explain the disorder from two or more causal viewpoints.
Be sure to support your postings and responses with specific references from the Learning Resources.