Abnormal Psychology

To understand abnormal psychology, it can be helpful to define “normal” in the clinical sense. People can have vastly different experiences from their typical baseline, with a nearly limitless number of variables. Understanding the clinical implications of the field of abnormal psychology can be an important step to create an environment of validation and understanding for those who live with associated psychological conditions. 

Read on to learn about what abnormal psychology is, the mental health conditions included in this category and how conditions related to abnormal psychology can affect one’s behavior. 

What is abnormal psychology?

Medical professionals commonly found supporting the field of abnormal psychology include counselors, psychotherapists, clinical psychologists and psychiatrists. They can work with people to describe, explain, and change abnormal behavior or thought patterns. 

Four Ds of mental health diagnosis in abnormal psychology

Timothy Davis, Ph.D., proposed the “Four Ds of Diagnoses” for abnormal psychology in a 2009 paper in the Internet Journal of Psychiatry. The theory offers four categories of assessment to help medical professionals define abnormal psychology and determine when a patient’s symptoms elevate enough to diagnose a psychiatric condition included in the DSM-5. This theory and the DSM-5 can offer quantitative analysis to help a psychology professional determine if a diagnosis is statistically relevant in the classification and scope of most mental disorders that fall under abnormal psychology.

Deviance

Dysfunction

While negative feelings may linger after a difficult day or adverse experiences, they can usually fade as you process your related emotions and adjust to any changes as necessary. However, those living with conditions that may be classified as psychological disorders related to abnormal psychology might display maladaptive behavior or symptoms that interfere with their lives in a significant way, which can coincide with an inability to process emotions effectively. 

Distress

Danger

Abnormal psychology mental disorders

The field of abnormal psychology focuses on covering many different categories of conditions depending on their clinical presentation and severity. Some classifications of these related conditions and psychiatric disorders include: 

• Anxiety disorders (including obsessive-compulsive disorder, various phobias, panic disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder) 

• Mood disorders (including bipolar disorder, major depressive disorder, dysthymia, and seasonal affective disorder)

• Adjustment disorders (which often present as a comorbidity to anxiety and depression)

• Neurodevelopmental disorders (including autism spectrum disorder, conduct disorders, and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder)

• Neurocognitive disorders (including Alzheimer's disease and dementia)

• Personality disorders (including borderline personality disorder, narcissistic personality disorder, and antisocial personality disorder)

• Substance use disorders (including opioid use disorder, alcohol use disorder, and stimulant use disorder)

• Psychotic disorders (often referred to as psychoses)

Abnormal psychology approaches for psychologists

Because abnormal psychology deals with a vast array of mental health conditions and behavioral disorders, many professionals may favor different approaches and often utilize elements from multiple schools of thought. Understanding the methods and ideas used to treat psychological disorders can help patients know what to look for, which may result in a more complete healing experience. 

We’ve summarized several abnormal psychology approaches below: 

Psychoanalytic approach

Generally rooted in the theories of Sigmund Freud, the psychoanalytic approach proposes that unconscious memories, thoughts and desires influence our conscious actions. This approach usually proceeds from the idea that people are driven by their unconscious impulses, and meaningful change is possible through cognitive analysis that makes unconscious thoughts conscious.

Behavioral approach

This approach can target abnormal behaviors directly, using strategies like classical and operant conditioning. It may not address the potential underlying causes with the same precision as other methods. 

Medical approach to mental health

Cognitive approach

• There are many ways you can support a loved one who is living with a mental health condition. For example, you might choose to: Express your concern and listen without judgment if they are ready to talk about their experiences. You may choose to ask what you can do to help or identify any needs they have — emotionally or otherwise. 
• Encourage them to seek out mental health services or speak to a professional about their symptoms and offer to assist in making the appointment if they feel too overwhelmed. 
• Offer your support as they work to make meaningful changes in their life. 
• Reinforce the idea that mental illness doesn’t make a person weak, harmful or a burden nor does it define their personality. Mental health is a crucial part of overall well-being. 

Reach out for psychological support and guidance

Can online therapy help treat abnormal psychology?

Is therapy effective for abnormal psychological conditions?