Abnormal Psychology Disorders And Mental Health Treatment Options

Medically reviewed by April Justice, LICSW
Updated June 30th, 2025 by BetterHelp Editorial Team
Please be advised, the below article might mention trauma-related topics that include suicide, substance use, or abuse, which could be triggering to the reader.
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Abnormal psychology is a branch of psychology that examines various mental health conditions and psychiatric disorders that deviate from the norms of human thought and behavior. Here, we will delve into some of the most common—and fascinating—types of mental disorders that fall under this field of study, as well as the most effective treatments for overcoming them. Research published by the National Institute of Mental Health and other research bodies provides classification systems to understand the full range of mental disorders.

Diverse treatments are available for many mental illnesses

What does “abnormal” mean in psychology?

One of the fundamental questions in abnormal psychology is how to define what is “abnormal” within the context of human thought and behavior. Abnormal behavior is characterized by patterns that deviate from societal norms and expectations.  While humans may exhibit a diverse range of emotions, beliefs, and personality traits, it can be helpful to think of each of these as existing on a “continuum,” with extremes on either end representing that which may be considered “abnormal.”

What is considered “normal behavior” can vary across cultures and contexts, making the word "abnormal" somewhat subjective; certainly, patterns that may be considered unusual in some cultures might be perfectly normal in others. This is why the World Health Organization emphasizes cultural context in identifying mental disorders.

Understanding models of abnormality

In the realm of abnormal psychology, understanding models of abnormality is crucial for diagnosing and treating psychiatric disorders effectively. These models provide a framework that allows mental health professionals to make sense of complex human behavior and thought patterns, facilitating the development of targeted interventions and treatments. The medical condition of the individual often guides which model is applied in treatment planning.

  • The psychoanalytic approach: This approach emphasizes the roles that subconscious memories, thoughts, and urges wield on unusual patterns of thought and behavior. In most cases, specialists who approach abnormal psychology from a psychoanalytic angle believe that studying subconscious memories, thoughts, and urges can help improve atypical behaviors. The psychoanalytic approach believes that looking into the feelings associated with the behaviors above makes a positive difference in rehabilitation.
  • The behavioral approach: The behavioral approach focuses on the specific conduct of the afflicted individual, emphasizing the roles of positive and negative reinforcement in changing behavior. The goal of this approach is to eliminate negative behavior by counteracting it with positive action. This is especially relevant when working with children with disruptive patterns or impulse control challenges.
  • The medical approach: This approach focuses on biological issues that could contribute to atypical behaviors, such as genetics or underlying pathology, with the aim of understanding the physiological basis of psychiatric disorders and guiding medical treatments. It emphasizes the role that biology, chemical imbalances, and even bodily illnesses can play in mental health. When diagnosing conditions like major depressive disorder, the medical condition of the patient plays a vital role in treatment decisions.
  • The cognitive approach: In the cognitive approach, internal reasoning, interpretations, and thoughts are emphasized. When undergoing cognitive treatment, patients are encouraged to alter their internal thoughts or their external reactions to certain occurrences in the real world. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is an excellent form of treatment that can treat mood disorders that fall under the category of abnormal psychology. CBT has also proven effective for managing depressive episodes and related cognitive disorders.

Mental health experts use guides like the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) and advice from the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) to diagnose mental illnesses clearly and fairly. These guides list symptoms doctors look for, focusing on what they see, not just how unusual the behavior is.

Common abnormal psychology disorders: Eating disorders, anxiety disorders, and more

Anxiety disorders

Anxiety disorders, including generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), are characterized by excessive and often irrational worries and fears, causing personal distress and impairing one's ability to function in everyday life. Mental health professionals identify these conditions based on diagnostic criteria that consider the presence of unusual patterns of anxiety and fear. They can offer a range of medical treatments and therapeutic interventions aimed at working through trauma and learning effective coping strategies. Evidence from the National Institute of Mental Health links anxiety disorders with long-term significant impairment if left untreated.

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

Though post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is considered by many to be an anxiety disorder, it is not classified as such in the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). Instead, the DSM-5 lists post-traumatic stress disorder under the “Trauma- and Stressor-Related Disorders” section, which also includes conditions like acute stress disorder, adjustment disorders, and prolonged grief disorder. PTSD may also co-occur with social anxiety disorder, creating added difficulty in social skills training.

Mood disorders

Mood disorders, such as depression and bipolar disorder, involve significant disturbances in a person's emotional state, often leading to extreme shifts in mood. These mental disorders and mental health conditions are defined by the presence of extremely high or extremely low moods. Effective treatments for mood disorders may include medication, psychotherapy, and social support networks to help individuals regain emotional balance. In some cases, patients with depressive disorders may also experience depressed mood and report feeling sad for extended periods. Guidelines from the National Institute of Mental Health suggest early intervention leads to better outcomes.

Psychotic disorders

Psychotic disorders, like schizophrenia, entail a disruption in a person's thinking and perception of reality. People with psychotic disorders may experience hallucinations and delusions. Psychology plays a crucial role in diagnosing and treating these conditions. Treatment often involves medical and therapeutic interventions to reduce the frequency and severity of psychotic episodes and restore life balance and everyday functionality. Literature from the National Library of Medicine includes multiple clinical case studies of individuals living with schizophrenia.

Personality disorders

Personality disorders, including borderline personality disorder and narcissistic personality disorder, encompass enduring patterns of behavior and cognition that deviate from social norms. These disorders often lead to difficulties in relationships and personal distress. While personality disorders can be difficult to treat, mental health professionals often use a combination of therapeutic approaches to address the unique social and emotional challenges that often accompany them. Support from families, peer networks, or online communities may improve social support and treatment adherence.

Behavioral disorders

Behavioral disorders, such as Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD), Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), and Conduct Disorder (CD), involve persistent patterns of disruptive and inappropriate behaviors. Psychologists and clinicians use specific diagnostic criteria to define these disorders. As they typically arise in childhood and adolescence, mental health professionals often work closely with families and educators to improve social, academic, and executive functioning and the poor concentration of children.

Eating disorders

Anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge eating disorder fall under the category of eating disorders. These mental disorders or mental health conditions are characterized by issues surrounding food, dieting, and body image. The treatment of eating disorders often involves a combination of medical and psychological approaches, with a focus on addressing both the physical and emotional aspects of these disorders. A recent review published by the National Institute of Mental Health highlights comorbid cases of addiction and mental disorders.

Addiction

Addiction is an area of interest within abnormal psychology, as it studies the development of compulsive behaviors and dependence on substances or activities. Substance use disorders, such as drug addiction and alcoholism, as well as behavioral addictions like gambling addiction, are common examples. Treatment often involves a combination of medical, behavioral, and social interventions aimed at addressing both the physiological and psychological aspects of substance misuse. 

Developmental disorders

Developmental disorders encompass a range of conditions that affect an individual's development, including autism spectrum disorder, learning and communication disorders, and intellectual developmental disorder, among others. Psychologists and clinicians play a crucial role in diagnosing and treating these disorders, often using standardized assessments and clinical observations to identify specific challenges in an individual's development. Interventions often include speech and language therapy, occupational therapy, special education services, and behavioral interventions.

Mental health treatment for abnormal psychology disorders and mental illness symptoms

Treatment and rehabilitation for psychological disorders typically involve working with professionals who specialize in the specific disorder in question. Psychiatrists, clinical psychologists, therapists, and counselors may all play a role in treating psychiatric disorders. Psychiatrists may focus more on a medical approach, while other mental health professionals prioritize a psychoanalytic, behavioral, or cognitive approach.

Therapeutic approaches in addressing different forms of mental illness

There is an array of therapeutic modalities that may be used to address different forms of mental disorders and illnesses. For example, an individual living with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) may participate in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). This approach can help them better understand how unhelpful beliefs might contribute to their post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms. A person living with a specific phobia, however, may participate in exposure therapy, which can help them gradually develop less severe responses to their fears.

Seeking professional help for psychological disorder diagnosis

If you believe that you may have a psychological disorder, it may be worth reaching out to a mental health professional for consultation. Clinicians must undergo years of education and training to accurately assess and diagnose psychological disorders. They possess the expertise and experience needed to evaluate your symptoms, provide a proper diagnosis, and recommend appropriate treatment options.

Diverse treatments are available for many mental illnesses

How online mental health care can help treat abnormal psychology disorders

More and more people are gravitating toward online therapy, especially in areas where availability to in-person therapy services is limited. In many instances, online therapy is a more cost-effective option than face-to-face therapy. Additionally, online therapy platforms like BetterHelp enable the user to schedule appointments at convenient times and from preferred locations. All you need is a reliable internet connection. 

Systematic review studies have shown promising results for therapy and medication in managing complex psychiatric symptoms. Online therapy and in-person treatment both aim to restore balance to a person’s daily life. Mental health clinicians help individuals with mental disorders cope with symptoms such as excessive worry, isolation, or emotional dysregulation.

Online mental health care to treat related mental illness: Anxiety disorders, eating disorders, and more

Many studies have been conducted regarding the efficacy of online therapy in treating a variety of mental health disorders, including substance use disorders, depression, PTSD, and anxiety. In one study involving nearly 100 patients experiencing post-traumatic stress reactions, researchers determined that internet-based therapy was effective in reducing PTSD severity along with co-morbid depression and anxiety.

This included participants who showed symptoms of separation anxiety disorder and generalized anxiety disorder, both of which improved with consistent intervention. The American Psychiatric Association continues to support the use of digital tools to improve access to care.

Internet-based CBT for anxiety disorders

Participants, in general, reported high ratings of the therapeutic alliance with their therapists. In a separate literature review of studies using guided internet-based CBT as an intervention for anxiety disorders, researchers affirmed that iCBT is efficacious either as a complement or a replacement for face-to-face CBT.

Studies tracked the progress of patients with cognitive disorders, who also reported reduced other symptoms like irritability and fatigue. The National Institute of Mental Health has backed multiple trials in this area, often in collaboration with the National Library of Medicine.

Some case reviews included people with schizophrenia who found that structured online therapy plans helped meet their specific needs. Several articles from the National Institute of Mental Health and other sources looked at how online therapy can reduce social harm in those with dissocial disorders or antisocial personality disorders. The American Psychiatric Association has also provided helpful guidelines on this matter.

Takeaway

Abnormal psychology encompasses a wide and diverse range of psychiatric diagnoses. Much research in the area of psychology focuses on better understanding and treating these mental and behavioral issues. Treatment can involve a combination of medical interventions and therapies aimed at minimizing the impact of the disorder on a person’s life. If you are experiencing mental health concerns, know that help is available when you are ready. Connect with a licensed therapist online through BetterHelp.

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