How to Understand Abnormal Behavior

For years researchers have struggled with the phenomenon of psychological abnormality and recognition of the many disorders that stem from it. To understand what makes behavior disordered, it is important to understand how abnormal behavior is classified. Keeping in mind that this is an evolving as well as inexact science, psychologists have come to classify psychological abnormality through four common features: deviance, distress, dysfunction, and danger (Comer, 2008). Understanding the impact of these common factors can help determine what abnormal behavior is and how it relates to a specific disorder.

Often called "the four D's", these patterns of behavior represent indicators of possible abnormal behavior (Comer, 2008). The first pattern of behavior, deviance, relates specifically to the ideas of culture and social norms. Deviating from what is generally accepted as appropriate behavior in society can represent abnormal behavior. Judging abnormality cannot come from this pattern alone, but it is important to evaluate the deviation against these norms and determine its significance. Distress represents the feelings of distress that the behavior can cause in a person. In this case it is important to note that certain behaviors and actions do not necessarily illicit distress in all people.

This, like the others, is not a lone indicator. Another common factor in abnormal behavior is a certain level of dysfunction. Abnormality is likely to interfere with the daily functioning of the individual. Finally, danger represents serious concern and indication of abnormal behavior. When behavior begins to threaten the individual or others well-being, this may be a strong sign something is wrong (Comer, 2008). These patterns are not all-encompassing and guaranteed to identify abnormal behavior, but together they provide the best criteria for ultimately evaluating the normalcy of behavior.

As noted earlier, it is important to understand certain factors like social norms and culture help differentiate between normal and abnormal behavior. This is important to take into consideration as all environments may not produce the same results. This is also why it is so critical that the previously mentioned "four D's" are not judged individually, but rather collectively. Analyzing one behavioral pattern alone may be misleading.

For example, if an individual was observed dancing nude around a bonfire, the conclusion of deviance may indicate abnormal behavior. Upon further inspection, perhaps the culture dictates a traditional ceremony for adolescents to perform such an act. By taking culture and other behavior into consideration, it is easier to differentiate this individual from the one who acts in a similar fashion because "the voices" told him to. In the end, separating normal and abnormal behavior comes from the ability to analyze behavior patterns collectively while understanding the culture and social norms this behavior resides in.

While scientists have come a long way in the evaluation of behavior and understanding disorders, there is still much to learn. With this understanding comes the responsibility of knowing nothing is ever a sure thing. The most experienced psychologist makes judgments by gathering as much information as possible while understanding the variance that can occur. Ultimately, disordered behavior is becoming clearer with each day.

Reference(s)

Comer, R.J. (2008). Fundamentals of Abnormal Psychology (Fifth Edition). New York,

NY: Worth Publishers.