Psychological Disorders

Concept: Abnormal behavior refers to patterns of thoughts, emotions, or actions that deviate from societal norms and may impair an individual’s functioning. Psychologists often use the "4 D’s" to identify abnormality. Definition of Abnormal Behavior: Abnormal behavior is behavior that is:

Statistically rare or unusual
Violates social norms
Causes personal or social problems
The 4 D’s of Abnormal Behavior: 1. Deviance:

Behavior that differs from societal norms
Varies across cultures and time
Example: Talking loudly to oneself in public. 2. Distress:

Emotional suffering experienced by the individual
Includes anxiety, sadness, or fear
Example: Severe depression causing emotional pain. 3. Dysfunction:

Impairment in daily functioning
Difficulty in work, relationships, or self-care
Example: Inability to perform routine tasks due to mental illness. 4. Danger:

Risk of harm to self or others
Includes suicidal or violent tendencies
Example: Self-harm behavior. Conclusion: A behavior is considered abnormal when it significantly reflects one or more of the 4 D’s.

Concept: Psychological disorders affect thoughts, emotions, and behavior. Common disorders include Schizophrenia, Depression, and Anxiety Disorders.
1. Schizophrenia A severe mental disorder affecting perception and thinking. Symptoms:

Hallucinations (hearing or seeing things that are not real)
Delusions (false beliefs)
Disorganized speech and thinking
Social withdrawal
Lack of emotional expression

2. Depression A mood disorder characterized by persistent sadness and loss of interest. Symptoms:

Persistent sadness or hopelessness
Loss of interest in activities
Fatigue and low energy
Sleep disturbances
Changes in appetite
Difficulty concentrating
Thoughts of death or suicide (severe cases)

3. Anxiety Disorders (e.g., Phobias) Disorders involving excessive fear or worry. Symptoms:

Intense and irrational fear of specific objects or situations
Rapid heartbeat and sweating
Avoidance behavior
Restlessness and tension
Panic attacks (in severe cases)
Conclusion: These disorders differ in nature but significantly affect emotional well-being and daily functioning.