Historical Perspective to Abnormal Psychology
Historical Perspectives of Abnormal Psychology
PSY
September 17, 2012
Historical Perspectives of Abnormal Psychology Abnormal psychology is a field in psychology that concentrates on abnormal behavior and psychopathology of humans. Abnormal psychology focuses on disorders from obsession-compulsive, hypochondrias, phobias, anxiety disorders, dissociative disorders, depression, to sexual disorders to name a few. Clinical psychologists, counselors, and psychotherapists work in the area of abnormal psychology. In order to fully understand the origins of psychology her or she must consider the meaning of abnormal psychology along with its origins, the evolution of abnormal psychology, and its models of abnormalities, which attempts to treat those individuals who may suffer from various disorders.
Origins of Abnormal Psychology Many individuals when asked what is normal and what abnormal behavior believe that he or she would be able to answer the question. However, what one may view as normal behavior the other may not. One must remember that abnormal and normal are not referenced as bad or good. When one looks at the topic of abnormal psychology he or she should focus on the distinction of what is considered normal to what is considered abnormal. To the levels of disruptions, or distress that may be bringing on the behavior within the individual. When certain behaviors are causing problems within one’s life or is considered disruptive to other individuals this behavior could be considered abnormal. Abnormal behavior can often require mental health interventions by trained professionals. Listed are some different perspectives which are common in the study of abnormal psychology. There are many psychiatrists and psychologists who choose to focus on single perspectives, while many health professionals choose to use several areas of these perspectives to help them better understand and treat the different areas of psychological disorders. Medical
PSY
September 17, 2012
Historical Perspectives of Abnormal Psychology Abnormal psychology is a field in psychology that concentrates on abnormal behavior and psychopathology of humans. Abnormal psychology focuses on disorders from obsession-compulsive, hypochondrias, phobias, anxiety disorders, dissociative disorders, depression, to sexual disorders to name a few. Clinical psychologists, counselors, and psychotherapists work in the area of abnormal psychology. In order to fully understand the origins of psychology her or she must consider the meaning of abnormal psychology along with its origins, the evolution of abnormal psychology, and its models of abnormalities, which attempts to treat those individuals who may suffer from various disorders.
Origins of Abnormal Psychology Many individuals when asked what is normal and what abnormal behavior believe that he or she would be able to answer the question. However, what one may view as normal behavior the other may not. One must remember that abnormal and normal are not referenced as bad or good. When one looks at the topic of abnormal psychology he or she should focus on the distinction of what is considered normal to what is considered abnormal. To the levels of disruptions, or distress that may be bringing on the behavior within the individual. When certain behaviors are causing problems within one’s life or is considered disruptive to other individuals this behavior could be considered abnormal. Abnormal behavior can often require mental health interventions by trained professionals. Listed are some different perspectives which are common in the study of abnormal psychology. There are many psychiatrists and psychologists who choose to focus on single perspectives, while many health professionals choose to use several areas of these perspectives to help them better understand and treat the different areas of psychological disorders. Medical
References: David H. Barlow and Vincent Mark Durand (2004). Abnormal Psychology: In Integrative Approach. p.11 Hansell, J., Damour, L. (2008). Abnormal Psychology (2nd ed.). Hoboken, NJ: Wiley