Read the Case illustrations below and prepare a 700 to 1,050 word paper which addresses the given problems:
a) Is Jim's behavior abnormal? Use the six primary elements of abnormal behavior, outlined in Abnormal Psychology, to answer this problem.
b) Describe which of such six elements is incorporated to the DSM-IV definition of mental disorders. Would Jim have a ‘mental disorder' according to the DSM-IV definition? describe why or why not? Describe.
c) Analyze the pros and cons of having a classification system like the DSM-IV.
Format according to APA standards.
Case ex: Jim is a 48-year-old Caucasian male who is often describeed as a loner. For the past 15 years, Jim has maintained steady employment as a technical preparer for the mid-size publishing company. Jim lives in a one bedroom apartment and pays his bills on time. He has never married, has no children and expresses little interest in interpersonal relationships or friendships. However, his parents and brother live in the same city as Jim, he sees them only on major holidays. He doesn't seem interested in deepening these relationships. In his leisure time, Jim engages in solitary pursuits like reading and computer games. He lives life ‘under the radar' and prefers it that manner claiming that social interactions have never been all that satisfying to him. Others describes Jim as socially awkward. He frequently misses social cues which can make others feel uncomfortable. For illustration, he might continue talking when others give cues that it is time to end a conversation. He has as well been known to express his opinions on things in a ‘brutally honest' way. Such behaviors have isolated Jim socially and interfered with his capability to form lasting friendships. He appears to be oblivious to his social mistakes, having just a vague understanding of particular social interactions as ‘going well' or ‘not going well.' Jim acknowledges that he might seem ‘a little different' to others however this doesn't bother him in the least. He appears more or less indifferent to the opinions of others.