Abstract This paper discusses abnormal psychology with reference to the character of Jerry Fletcher in the movie "Conspiracy Theory". The character of Jerry was in constant fear of "them" without knowing who those people are. This paranoid perspective makes him behave strangely.
Abstract This paper discusses the field of abnormal psychology. The paper contends that there are many divergent and opposing views of what can be defined as abnormal. The paper claims that the definition of abnormal psychology is part of the fascination of the subject and that there is considerable debate with regard to the exact parameters of this field of psychology. There are a wide and often overlapping number of pathologies that are considered under the rubric of abnormal psychology and psychiatry. These include schizophrenia, as well as various anxiety, personality, and dissociative disorders. The range of abnormal psychological disorders has, in recent years, been extended to include abuse and dependence disorders, as well as eating disorders and sexual and gender identity complexes. The paper discusses all of these disorders that are considered as being within the field of abnormal psychology.
From the Paper "A general definition of Abnormal psychology is as follows: "Abnormal psychology can broadly be defined as the application of the principles of psychology to the study of mental disorders, including research into the causes and treatment of psychopathologies." (Introduction to Abnormal Psychology) The central and most controversial aspect of abnormal psychology is the issue surrounding the meaning of the term 'abnormal'. In other words, what precisely constitutes an abnormal psychological state? There is no single and conclusive view of what is 'abnormal' and each theoretical approach is determined by underlying assumptions about the meaning of this term."
Abstract The author states that behavioral and scientific abnormal psychology models do not apply in our modern, multicultural society. The paper reviews, in detail, throughout history, the definitions and theoretical interpretations of abnormal behavior. The author believes that sociocultural psychology, which takes into account an individual's society, family, and culture, offers a more comprehensive view of abnormal psychology. She states that the relative lack of ethnographic data on specifically defined cultural groups is a problem especially when working within immigrant communities.
From the Paper "The ancient Greeks were revolutionary in this regard. In the fourth century B.C.E., Hippocrates believed that some kind of physical malady was responsible for mental disorders. In fact, the "father of modern medicine" may be the first person to attribute mental illness to biological causes. Even with his primitive understanding of the human body and attribution of mental illness to the ?humors,? Hippocrates recognized the importance of diet, stress, and heredity on mental illness. Hippocrates even described disorders we catalog in the DSM today: depression, paranoia, Alzheimer?s, and alcoholism. Steering away from superstitious, supernatural explanations of abnormal behavior was an immense step forward in the treatment of those who suffered with mental illness."
Abstract This paper attempts to answer the question of what is abnormal behavior and how the field of abnormal psychology seeks to find answers to this question through psychological inquiry. It considers the influence of culture and gender when making decisions about the psychological status of persons and explains the four different diagnostic categories.
From the Paper "When we trace the history of the treatment of the mentally ill, we can appreciate how far we have come in a very short period of time. Historically, the treatment of persons' suffering from mental illness was awful. Prehistoric and Ancient - During this period, the belief was that demons and evil spirits possessed mentally ill persons. Trephining (surgically chipping away part of the skull) was used to release these evil spirits. Exorcism was also used and person's were flogged and starved to rid them of the evil spirits.Hippocrates during the Greco-Roman era believed that there was a scientific explanation for mental disorders and he focused on brain dysfunction. "
This paper looks at the abnormalities within human behaviors in four different works of literature: Swift in 'A Modest Proposal', Anton Chekhov in 'Enemies', Frank Kafka in 'The Metamorphosis' and Wordsworth's poem: 'World is Too Much With Us'.
Abstract This paper compares the way in which these poets and writers examine the dysfunctional behavior of society. Swift attacks abortions and death of young babies to unwed Irish mothers, Chekhov is embittered about his childhood, Kafka presents a bleak picture of human nature and Wordsworth thinks that the problems of the world are too much to bare. It concludes that normality and abnormality is defined by the needs of the humans within a society and thus dependent more on the perspective than the actual morality and sociology of the act.
From the Paper "In 1729, Jonathan Swift, wrote the Modest Proposal, the greatest short satirical piece in the English language. Completely appalled at the abortions and murders of the Catholic Irish children born of unwed peasant mothers he writes this proposal that attacks the English politicians. In trying to make known such inhumane acts from desperate mothers he makes his protagonist an American, who the British consider, 'uncivilized." Through his protagonist he pens the words that shatter the emotional balance of the people who like living in conditional ignorance. He writes, "I have been assured by a very knowing American of my acquaintance in London," he writes in a satire that became a classic of English literature, "that a young healthy child well nursed is at a year old a most delicious, nourishing, and wholesome food whether stewed, roasted, baked, or boiled; and I make no doubt that it will equally serve in a fricassee or a ragout." "
Reviews the history of abnormal psychology as a history of mental illness and the various influences that have advanced the research and treatment of mental illness.
2,400 words (approx. 9.6 pages), 6 sources, 2002, $ 89.95
Abstract Beginning with primitivism and concluding with the technological and specialized classification and diagnostic tools of 21st century psychology, this review examines the recursive cycles of humanitarian approaches to psychology. The fleeting appearances of a morality and value system in psychology indicate a change in modern techniques is over-due. This paper concludes with a summary of structural and functional approaches to psychology and emphasizes the lack of interconnected theories that might illuminate treatments of abnormal psychology.
Abstract This paper argues that gender and culture play a significant role in the defining of abnormal behavior. Socially-defined gender roles and characteristics frequently place unreal expectations and pressures on individuals, women in particular. It looks at how the desire on the part of Western women to conform to male ideals of womanhood can cause them to view their own bodies and personalities in a negative context.
From the Paper "Such discoveries lead naturally into discussions of cross-cultural as well as intra-cultural differences as they relate to attitudes toward the role of women, and toward what is considered "abnormal" vs. normal. The fact that different societies possess different ideas of masculine and feminine norms speaks eloquently to the notion that these are not biologically-determined characteristics. ?Cultures set a range of opportunities for development; they define the limits of what is desirable, ?normal,? individual variation, and what is "abnormal" in that culture (although there is some cultural consensus that some forms of deviance and psychopathology are abnormal).? (Reese & Franzen, 1997, pp. 4-5) Recent studies of non-Western peoples have resulted in the discovery that many linkages between emotional and mental states on the one hand, and psychoses or neuroses on the other, are quite different from those connections observed in the West. Even in so seemingly simple a case as the expression of anger (and thus whatever problems its inappropriate expression might entail), there are significant differences from culture to culture: Whereas Eskimos seldom display anger, others employ elaborate and complex means of expressing anger. Likewise, other cultures encourage (i.e., Iranians) or discourage (i.e., Navajos) displays of extreme sadness and sorrow. (Manson, Bechtold, Novins & Beals, 1997, p. 139) By the same token, ?Within-group differences also are evident along these lines, most notably in terms of social class and gender, especially for dysphoria and excessive worry. This appears to be true among mainstream Americans as well as such ethnic minorities as Indians and Natives.? (Manson, Bechtold, Novins & Beals, 1997, p. 139)"
This paper discusses the characteristics, treatments and potential outcomes of three abnormal psychological conditions: Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, anorexia nervosa and schizophrenia.
Abstract This paper explains that abnormal psychology is generally concerned with undesirable behaviors, which, since the early 1900s, have been classified and updated yearly in the DSM-IV that is used by professionals to help identify mental illnesses. The author explains that attention-deficit disorder and disruptive behavior (ADHD), which runs in the family, was once thought to be only a childhood disorder but research shows that it continues into adulthood. The paper relates that the treatment for schizophrenia demands medication, such as Risperdal, Zyprexa, and Clozaril, along with psychotherapy; however, sometimes hospitalization is necessary during an active phase of the illness.
From the Paper "Unfortunately with behavioral disorders, relapses are triggered by stressful events and the majority of people in this world go through many stressful events in their lifetime. As for people with schizophrenia, they will never return to a fully normal and healthy life. The disorders symptoms can be controlled with medications and therapy. One problem they are left with is permanent side effects from the medications they have to take over their life times, which can be undesirable in social and occupational settings. Treatments are constantly changing and hopefully someday the outlook for all disorders will be bright. But we need to understand what the outcome can be so we can pass on to our patients what they can achieve."
Abstract This paper examines the case of Richard Speck, a convicted murderer of eight women in the United State. At Speck's trial his attorney claimed that a new theory of behavioral causality with an identifiable chromosomal abnormality represented by the XYY configuration corresponded to specific behavioral traits that predisposed individuals to violent and antisocial behavior. The author of the paper examines evidence for and against this theory in the light of Speck's childhood, research and an autopsy performed on Speck's body after he died in 1991.
Outline:
Background and History
XYY Supermale Analysis
Social Biology Analysis
References
From the Paper "Critics of the XYY theory of criminal conduct suggest that even if XYY corresponds to higher statistical likelihood of certain types of antisocial behavior, it is not substantially different from other components of naturally evolved human behaviors. In other primate species, including those most closely related to homo sapiens, male dominance is expressed through patterns of behavior that would be considered, in human terms, criminal. According to that view, even XYY-based behavioral patterns still lie within the spectrum of normal human tendencies and that it is not particularly surprising that prisons house individuals who share behavioral traits consistent with criminal behavior (The Hastings Center 1980)."
Abstract This paper discusses that, parallel to the proliferation of new scientific and medical discoveries in psychology, is the prevalence of literary works and visual materials, such as "One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest" (1975), which provides information about psychology, specifically depictions of people diagnosed with illnesses associated with abnormal psychology. The author points out that, in this movie, each character depicts a particular abnormal behavior; McMurphy, as the lead character of the story, depicts the stereotypes often associated with individuals afflicted with mental illness. The paper relates that the theory of learned helplessness is demonstrated through McMurphy's ward mates, whose perceived inability to deal with their problems led to depression and continued dependence on the institution for help and Nurse Ratchett's pills and counseling.
From the Paper "The characters of Dale, Charlie, Martini, and Taber show how learned helplessness is perpetuated within the culture of the mental institution. Dale, for example, sought the help of the institution when he could not deal with the hurt, embarrassment and depression that he felt when his wife committed adultery. His helplessness prior to his admittance to the institution further worsened when he was admitted. He lost perspective of his problem, was not able to move on to establish a new life without his wife, and instead further attached himself with his problem and found no solution to it at all, and eventually became dependent on the institution and the "comforts" it gave to him."
Abstract This paper explains that research indicates that adolescents of alcoholic parents are prone to developing abnormal behavior due to environmental, cognitive and biological influences. The author points out that mental disorders, such as depression or anxiety, are common side effects of adolescents who are subjected to an environment where the parents are alcoholics. The paper states that children from these homes often demonstrate behavioral problems, such as stealing and fighting, and often are diagnosed as having conduct disorders. The author underscores that children of alcoholic parents are raised in an environment where alcohol consumption compensates for the lack of social skills. The paper states that these children suffer academically because of the parent's lack of support for their child at school. The author stresses the importance of identifying protective factors and educating society to reduce the hazards of abnormal behavior in children of alcoholic parents.
From the Paper "Along with environmental factors, children of alcoholics can suffer from cognitive misperceptions and dichotomous thinking. For example, when children experience feelings of guilt due to their parents drinking and assume that it is their fault, this is a form of illogical and dichotomous thinking. The children develop illogical thought patterns and self-blame primarily due to their parents not taking responsibility for their drinking, which will eventually lead to abnormal behaviors by the child."
A comparative analysis paper about "Lolita" and "Kiss of the Spider Woman". In both "Kiss of the Spider Woman" and "Lolita", unconventional parental relationships lead to abnormalities in the behaviors of Molina and Lolita, respectively.
2,420 words (approx. 9.7 pages), 8 sources, 2001, $ 73.95
Abstract This paper compares Nabakov's "Lolita" with Puig's "Kiss of the Spider Woman". The author discusses the unconventional parent-child relationships between the main characters and their mothers, and how such characters were viewed as abnormal by society's standards. The paper examines how parental behavior toward offspring, as well as popular culture, can affect an individual's sexuality. The author frequently quotes both novels in the essay.
From the Paper "Kiss of the Spider Woman and Lolita examine the effects of ineffective parenting while attempting to show that society is the cause of the very behaviors it condemns. Molina's close relationship with his mother, through no intentional fault on her part, causes Molina's homosexuality and feminine behavior. Molina does not have any other role model besides his mother from whom to learn interpersonal skills, and therefore wants all relationships to be as satisfying as his relationship with her. Charlotte and Lolita have very different temperaments, resulting in a parent-child dyad that causes Charlotte to constantly criticize Lolita's actions, forcing Lolita to respond through rebellion. Both Puig and Nabokov attempt to show that while society shuns homosexuality and adolescent promiscuity in their respective characters, popular culture is the origin of the behaviors that it condemns and that these behaviors are socially learned."
Abstract A look at the disorder called autism and how it effects children's lives and social capabilities. The author examines the causes of the disorder, the symptoms, guidelines to deal with the disorder and intervention mechanisms.
I. What is autism?
A. mysterious disorder that keeps children from interacting socially and emotionally
B. The prevalence of autism is between one and two autistic persons per thousand. However, another four or five per thousand have autistic spectrum disorder
C. a combination of behavior abnormalities (list)
D. do not properly process sensory information from their environment
II. What causes autism?
A. genetic basis
B. Structural brain differences
C. Rejected explanations (Bettelheim)
II. Diagnosis
A. New guidelines
B. early diagnosis of autism and early intervention improves outcomes for most children with autism
IV. Early intervention for autism
A. Benefits
B. Controversies
II Long-term implications
V. Bibliography
From the Paper "Autism is a poorly understood disorder usually diagnosed in childhood. It interferes with the person's ability to develop normal skills and form normal emotional bonds with others (Stokstad, 2001). Children who have autism will show behavioral differences when compared to other children. For instance, they may show marked social difficulties that can include complete social withdrawal; they may lack language or use it in idiosyncratic ways; they may have trouble making eye contact with others; they may make repetitive body movements such as head-banging, rocking or flapping their arms or hands.'
Abstract This paper is an in-depth examination of the field of abnormal psychology and the treatment of mental illness. This paper examines the many different components of this field, including the historical treatment and explanation of mental iIllness, the role of the criminal justice system as a tool used to treat the mentally ill and the benefits and dangers of using labels in mental health. The author also looks at different models that have been applied in this field and presents both the advantages and disadvantages to their use. Also examined in detail is the treatment of children, uses and abuses of medication and child's rights when being treated by a therapist.
The following is a table of contents for the paper:
Historical Treatment and Explanation of Mental Illness
Criminal Justice System as Treatment for Mentally Ill
The Benefits and Dangers of using Labels in Mental Health
What is Concordance?
Advantages and Disadvantages of the Medical Model Approach to Mental Disorders
Inter-Rater Reliability of the DSM-IV
Why has ADHD's prevalence recently increased so dramatically?
Who should have control over the treatment of children?
The right of the mentally ill to have children
What are: Mental Retardation, Pervasive Developmental Disorders, and Learning Disorders?
There is a bibliography, but no footnotes or endnotes.
From the Paper "The advantages of this view include getting faster results, attaining functionality, and avoiding stigmatization through labeling. The medical model's approach of treating the behaviour can often achieve much faster results because it does not spend time searching for an often difficult to find, underlying cause. It treats what is already obvious, the behaviour, and thus can attain much faster results. The medical model is also capable of restoring a person to a level of functionality much faster than the non-medical model. By treating the behaviour problems, a person can become able to function within their daily lives. The medical model would advocate teaching coping skills rather than trying to cure the unconscious causes of behaviour, which they may not even admit exist. Another advantage of the medical model is that it avoids the labeling associated with the traditional diagnoses offered by the DSM-IV. By only treating the behaviour, the medical model does not provide a label for the patient and thus avoids the associated stigmatization of labeling."
This paper reviews an exploratory research study that examined the abnormalities of the pituitary glands of bipolar and unipolar patients in expectation of finding a cure.
Abstract The author explains that the research question asked if the pituitary glands of bipolar or unipolar patients differ in size from one another or from a control group of healthy participants. MRI images were utilized. The results indicated that patients diagnosed bipolar had significantly smaller pituitary glands than that of the unipolar group and the control group.
From the Paper "The study was conducted this past year at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, with the patients being between 18 and 65 years old; each participant had been off of medication for at least two weeks. All perspectives that could be recorded through the MRI were observed and measured."
