Abnormal Psychology: Diagnosing Abnormal Psychological Disorders

To understand abnormal psychology, defining “normal” in the clinical sense can be helpful. 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 abnormal psychological conditions. 

Abnormal psychology focuses on identifying and treating patterns that significantly interfere with functioning and well-being.

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

What is abnormal psychology?

The DSM-5 is a handbook used to help clinicians diagnose mental health conditions and psychological disorders, offering descriptions of possible symptoms and suggested diagnostic criteria. 

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

According to the American Psychiatric Association, mental health conditions affect nearly one in five adults in the United States. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, the total number of adults living with mental illness in 2021 was 57.8 million.

Exploring terminology: What does abnormal psychology mean?

Each person’s mental health management experience is unique, which can make it difficult for psychology specialists to determine a true, accurate “baseline” for normal or abnormal. The study of abnormal psychology, and its subsequent naming using the term "abnormal", dates to the dawn of modern clinical psychology, which many presume to be in the 1960s and later. No condition is truly “abnormal,” as it is within the scope of a person’s lived experience. This designation typically applies when statistical infrequency, social norms, or distress define an abnormal behavior. Clinicians refer to the following characteristics when classifying experiences in this category. In this sense, abnormal is the designating term for any condition which psychology specialists identify as statistically and quantifiably rarer than other forms of any given diagnosis in the field of psychology.

Four Ds of mental health diagnosis in abnormal psychology

Timothy Davis, Ph.D., proposed the “Four D’s of Diagnoses” for abnormal psychology in a 2009 paper in the Internet Journal of Psychiatry. The theory on this form of psychology offers four categories of assessment to help medical professionals define abnormal psychology and determine when a person’s symptoms elevate enough to diagnose a psychiatric or abnormal 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. There is considerable debate on how these dimensions interact in the real world. This is especially true when considering cultural variation in defining abnormality.

When asked about his formation of the Four D’s of Diagnosis, Dr. Davis stated: “Every human being experiences a range of problematic emotions, cognitions, and behaviors across the life span. When does a problem become a disorder? To answer the question in part, mental health professionals can utilize the “four D’s,” danger, deviance, dysfunction, and distress, to conceptualize mental disorders. — Timothy O. Davis, Ph.D., LSCSW

Deviance

Many mental health conditions may involve symptoms, thoughts, or abnormal behaviors related to deviance, otherwise known as what is considered outside the generally reported baseline of society as a whole. Statistical files about the general population worldwide can offer a helpful supporting comparison when determining the degree of deviation, or how "abnormal" they may be from the baseline average of any given region. These benchmarks are grounded in concepts such as genetic inheritance, social norms, and culturally accepted definitions of abnormal behavior.

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 changes. However, those living with conditions that may be classified as psychological disorders related to abnormal psychology might display maladaptive behaviors or symptoms that significantly interfere with their lives, which can coincide with abnormal experiences such as difficulty processing emotions effectively.

Distress

The symptoms of mental illness and the resulting dysfunction may cause distress in an individual, which can be used to assess the effect of mental health conditions on a person’s psychology and overall well-being. This is often the case in post-traumatic stress disorder, where trauma symptoms trigger persistent abnormal behavior.

Danger

Many psychology field experts agree that one of the critical components of diagnosing mental health conditions is “danger,” which can be separated into two categories — danger to oneself and danger to other people. The level and scale of the risk can vary substantially by psychological disorder and can be used to determine if symptoms constitute an abnormal experience or diagnosable mental illness.

Some disorders, such as bipolar disorder, may involve impulsive actions that increase risk. In contrast, conditions like panic disorder may not always appear dangerous but can still reflect serious abnormal behavior. Misunderstandings about these risks have fueled considerable debate in public and academic discussions.

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 psychological classifications of these related conditions and psychiatric disorders include: 

• Anxiety disorders (including various phobias, panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, and generalized anxiety 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)
• Eating disorders (including anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa)
• Stress and trauma-related disorders
• Obsessive-compulsive and related disorders

The list of psychiatric classifications continues to evolve as clinicians engage in defining abnormality across multiple dimensions. Resources from the National Institute of Mental Health help guide evidence-based practices in diagnosing and treating abnormal psychological conditions.

Different approaches to treat abnormal psychological disorders

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 in psychology that people are driven by their unconscious impulses, and meaningful change is possible through cognitive analysis that makes unconscious thoughts conscious.

Behavioral approach

Observable behaviors are a core concept of the behavioral approach. Treatment reinforces positive behaviors and thought patterns, helping the patient recognize adverse behaviors and maladaptive coping mechanisms. Sessions may also help the client establish practical coping skills to help manage stress and symptoms. This aligns with the behavioral approach, which emphasizes reinforcement and adaptation of abnormal behavior into healthier responses. This approach can directly target abnormal behaviors using strategies like classical and operant conditioning. However, it may not address the potential underlying causes with the same precision as other methods.

This psychology-specific 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 psychological methods.

Medical approach to mental health

In this treatment category, patients may receive medication as part of the treatment plan or undergo testing for further differential diagnosis support and analysis. Underlying causes that medical treatments and analysis can identify may include conditions such as a chemical imbalance, infection, or toxin exposure.

The BetterHelp platform is not intended for any information regarding which drugs, medication, or medical treatment may be appropriate for you. The content provides generalized information, not specific to one individual. You should not take any action without consulting a qualified medical professional.

Cognitive approach

The cognitive approach generally involves addressing a person’s underlying thought patterns and beliefs, reframing them to be more healthful and supportive. In this context, cognitive therapy may center on identifying adverse behaviors and maladjusted coping skills, shifting thinking over time toward positive habits that the patient can tangibly experience in their daily life. Clinicians also differentiate between mental patterns and observable actions, noting when such behavior stems from disordered thinking.

How to help a loved one with a mental health diagnosis

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 are overwhelmed.
• Offer your support as they work to make meaningful changes in their life.
• Reinforce the idea that mentally ill individuals are not defined by their diagnosis. 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.

Find psychological support and guidance for mental illness

Mental health conditions and their related symptoms can be challenging to manage on one’s own. The support and guidance provided by behavioral therapy or a trained professional can be valuable tools to evaluate any underlying difficulties and may help someone find healthy ways to cope with emotions and mental health. 

Online therapists can serve a similar role as in-person therapists — helping people to improve communication skills for more effective work, social, family, and romantic relationships. They can also teach practical coping strategies to help people manage their stress and process their emotions, addressing unresolved experiences and feelings from one’s past.

Can online therapy help treat abnormal psychology?

If you or a loved one is living with a mental health condition such as obsessive-compulsive disorder, an anxiety disorder, or a personality disorder, you may consider speaking to a licensed therapist online through a virtual therapy platform like BetterHelp. When you connect with a therapist using the platform, you can receive treatment from the comfort and convenience of your own home or a safe place, conveniently located on your smart device. In addition, you can access resources like worksheets, journaling prompts, and group therapy.

Is therapy effective for abnormal psychological conditions?

After conducting multiple studies, the American Psychological Association (APA) published results confirming that online therapy can be an effective, affordable alternative to treatment in the traditional clinical setting. According to the APA, online therapy is generally available for many mental health conditions, and the APA has also been quoted affirming that internet-based treatments can be a helpful way to assist many people who could not receive help previously. 

Takeaway

The field of abnormal psychology can include the management and acknowledgment of many mental health conditions and symptoms. The information provided above may help you understand how differences in emotions, thought patterns, and behaviors can affect people. If you or a loved one is living with a mental health condition, therapy can be a helpful tool to support you in healthier patterns and management techniques. Consider reaching out to a provider online or in your area to get started.