Abnormal psychology is a branch of psychology that deals with psychopathology and abnormal

behavior. The term covers a broad range of disorders, from depression to obsession-compulsion
to sexual deviation and many more. Counselors, clinical psychologists and psychotherapists
often work directly in this field.

Understanding Abnormal Psychology

In order to understand abnormal psychology, it is essential to first understand what we mean by

the term "abnormal"? On the surface, the meaning seems obvious: something that is outside of
the norm. But are we talking about the norms of a particular group, gender or age? Many human
behaviors can follow what is known as the normal curve. Looking at this bell-shaped curve, the
majority of individuals are clustered around the highest point of the curve, which is known as the
average. People who fall very far at either end of the normal curve might be considered
"abnormal."

It is important to note that the distinctions of normal and abnormal are not synonymous with
good or bad. Consider a characteristic such as intelligence. A person who falls at the very upper
end of the curve would fit under our definition of abnormal; this person would also be considered
a genius. Obviously, this is an instance where falling outside of the norms is actually a good
thing.

When you think about abnormal psychology, rather than focus on the distinction between what is
normal and what is abnormal, focus instead on the level of distress or disruption that a troubling
behavior might cause. If a behavior is causing problems in a person's life or is disruptive to other
people, then this would be an "abnormal" behavior that may require some type of mental health
intervention.

Perspectives in Abnormal Psychology

There are a number of different perspectives used in abnormal psychology. While some
psychologists or psychiatrists may focus on a single perspectives, many mental health
professionals us elements from multiple areas in order to better understand and treat
psychological disorders.

 Behavioral: The behavioral approach to abnormal psychology focuses on observable

behaviors. In behavioral therapy, the focus is on reinforcing positive behaviors and not
reinforcing maladaptive behaviors. This approach targets only the behavior itself, not the
underlying causes.

 Medical: The medical approach to abnormal psychology focuses on the biological causes
on mental illness. The perspective emphasizes understanding the underlying cause of
disorders, which might include genetic inheritance, related physical disorders, infections
and chemical imbalances. Medical treatments are often pharmacological in nature,
although medication is often used in conjunction with some other type of psychotherapy.
  Cognitive: The cognitive approach to abnormal psychology focuses on how internal
thoughts, perceptions and reasoning contribute to psychological disorders. Cognitive
treatments typically focus on helping the individual change his or her thoughts or
reactions, or cognitive therapy might be used in conjunction with behavioral methods in a
technique known as cognitive behavioral therapy.

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