The models that attempt to explain the concepts of abnormal psychology are called models of abnormality. These models of abnormality explain the causes of abnormal behavior and mental disorders. Some of the most widely recognized models of abnormality include:
1. Biological Model
The biological model of abnormality believes that mental disorders are caused by biological factors such as genetics, brain chemistry, and physiological abnormalities.
- According to this biological model of abnormality, mental illness is primarily a result of dysfunction in the brain and the nervous system.
- This model emphasizes the role of neurotransmitters, hormones, and other biological factors in the development of mental disorders.
- Researchers have found that there is a Connection between certain psychological disorders and dysfunction in specific brain areas.
- Abnormal activity in neurotransmitters lead to specific disorders. For example : Depression as a result of an imbalance in neurotransmitters such as serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine in the brain.
- Abnormal chemical activity in the body’s endocrine system is sometimes related to Mental Disorders. For example, in order to help the body deal with the stress, the adrenal glands, on top of the kidneys, secrete the hormone cortisol. Anxiety and mood disorders are tied to abnormal secretions of this chemical.
2.Psychodynamic Model
The psychodynamic model of abnormality is a psychological theory that explains abnormal behavior in terms of unconscious conflicts that are rooted in childhood experiences.
Sigmund Freud
- According to this model, psychological problems arise from unresolved conflicts and repressed emotions in the unconscious mind, which may be traced back to early childhood experiences.
- Sigmund Freud is the founder of the psychodynamic approach, and his theories have greatly influenced the development of this model.
- Freud believes that the human mind has three parts: the conscious, the preconscious, and the unconscious.
- The unconscious mind is the repository of repressive memories, desires, and fears that are too painful or unacceptable to be in the conscious awareness.
- Abnormal behavior is the result of conflicts that arise between the three parts of the mind. Particularly between the unconscious and conscious mind.
- These conflicts may be related to the individual’s early experiences, particularly their relationships with their parents or caregivers.
- For example, a child who experiences trauma or neglect in early childhood may develop feelings of anger, fear, or helplessness that become repressed in the unconscious mind. These repressed emotions may later manifest as psychological disorders in adulthood.
In the psychodynamic model, treatment typically involves exploring the unconscious mind through techniques such as free association, dream analysis, and interpretation of symbolic material. The goal of therapy is to bring repressed emotions and conflicts to conscious awareness. So that the individual can work through them and achieve greater psychological health and well-being.
3. Behavioral Model
The behavioral model of abnormality, suggests that abnormal behavior is learned through the environment and experiences, rather than internal factors such as unconscious conflicts or genetics.
- This model proposes that behavior is shaped by the consequences that follow it. And abnormal behavior results from inappropriate or maladaptive learning.
- According to this model, abnormal behavior is learned through the process of conditioning. There are two types of conditioning :
- Classical Conditioning: It occurs when a neutral stimulus becomes associated with an unconditioned stimulus, resulting in a conditioned response. For example, a person with a phobia of dogs may have developed this fear through a traumatic experience with a dog, resulting in a conditioned fear response to dogs.
- Operant Conditioning: It occurs when behavior is strengthened or weakened by the consequences that follow it. Positive reinforcement, such as receiving praise or a reward, increases the likelihood of a behavior being repeated. While punishment decreases the likelihood of a behavior being repeated. For example: A person may continue to engage in substance abuse if they experience positive reinforcement, such as a temporary escape from stress, despite negative consequences such as health problems or legal issues.
- This model also emphasizes the role of observational learning. Where behavior is learned through observing and imitating others.
Overall, the behavioral model of abnormality suggests that abnormal behavior can be understood and treated through modifying the learning experiences and environment that contribute to the behavior. This may involve strategies such as exposure therapy to overcome phobias or other fears, or behavioral modification techniques to replace maladaptive behaviors with more adaptive ones. Key principle : ” What is learned can be unlearned”.
4. Cognitive Model
The cognitive model of abnormality is a psychological framework that explains mental disorders in terms of faulty or distorted thought patterns.
- This model suggests that individuals with mental health problems have negative or irrational beliefs that lead to negative emotions and maladaptive behaviors.
- Individuals with mental health problems tend to engage in cognitive distortions such as all-or-nothing thinking, overgeneralization, catastrophizing, and personalization. These distortions can lead to feelings of hopelessness, worthlessness, and anxiety.
- It also suggests that negative thoughts can be triggered by specific situations, such as a traumatic event, social isolation, or a major life change.
- These negative thoughts then become automatic and can lead to a cycle of negative emotions and behaviors.
Treatment for mental health disorders based on this model often involves cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), which aims to help individuals identify and challenge their negative thought patterns and develop more adaptive coping strategies. By addressing the underlying cognitive distortions, CBT can help individuals with mental health problems improve their emotional well-being and quality of life.
5.Humanistic Existential Model
The humanistic existential model of abnormality states that abnormal behavior arises from a sense of disconnection from one’s authentic self and the world around them. Which can lead to feelings of anxiety, despair, and purposelessness.
- Abnormal behavior is often the result of individuals struggling to find meaning and purpose in their lives.
- They may feel disconnected from their innermost desires and values or feel overwhelmed by the complexity and uncertainty of their circumstances.
- In such cases, they may turn to maladaptive coping mechanisms. Such as substance abuse, avoidance, or aggression, to try and manage their distress.
- It emphasizes the importance of a supportive, empathic therapeutic relationship in helping individuals reconnect with their authentic selves and find meaning and purpose in their lives.
- It may also involve cultivating a sense of mindfulness and present-moment awareness, and encouraging individuals to engage in activities that promote self-growth and fulfillment.
Overall, the humanistic existential model of abnormality offers a holistic, person-centered approach to understanding and treating abnormal behavior. That emphasizes the importance of individual experiences and perspectives.
6. Socio-cultural Model
The socio-cultural perspective in models of abnormality states the impact of social and cultural factors on individual behavior and mental health.
- This model suggests that abnormal behavior arises from a complex interplay of social, cultural, and environmental factors, including family dynamics, societal norms and expectations, economic status, and political and historical events.
- Abnormal behavior is often shaped by the cultural and societal context in which it occurs.
- For example, certain cultural beliefs and values may influence the manifestation and expression of mental health symptoms. As well as the types of coping mechanisms individuals use to manage their distress.
- Social factors such as poverty, discrimination, and lack of access to resources may also contribute to the development of abnormal behavior.
Therapy may involve exploring a person’s cultural beliefs, values, and experiences, and helping them to develop coping strategies that are consistent with their cultural background. It may also involve addressing societal and structural barriers that contribute to mental health disparities, and advocating for policies that promote social justice and equity.
It is important to note that these models of abnormality are not mutually exclusive. Many mental health professionals use a combination of these models to understand and treat abnormal behavior.
