Practicing Success

Target Exam

CUET

Subject

Psychology

Chapter

Psychological Disorders

Question:

Which criterion for defining normality suggests that behavior is abnormal if it interferes with the well-being of the individual and their group?

Options:

Social norms criterion

Maladaptive criterion

Conformity criterion

Deviance criterion

Correct Answer:

Maladaptive criterion

Explanation:

The second approach in distinguishing between normal and abnormal behaviours views abnormal behaviour as maladaptive. Many psychologists believe that the best criterion for determining the normality of behaviour is not whether society accepts it but whether it fosters the well-being of the individual and eventually of the group to which s/he belongs. Well-being is not simply maintenance and survival but also includes growth and fulfilment, i.e. the actualisation of potential, which you must have studied in Maslow’s need hierarchy theory. According to this criterion, conforming behaviour can be seen as abnormal if it is maladaptive, i.e. if it interferes with optimal functioning and growth. For example, a student in the class prefers to remain silent even when s/he has questions in her/his mind. Describing behaviour as maladaptive implies that a problem exists; it also suggests that vulnerability in the individual, inability to cope, or exceptional stress in the environment have led to problems in life.