Define and differentiate between normal and abnormal behaviour.
Assignment Brief
- South Africa faces many mental health challenges. Write an essay in which you include the following:
- Define and differentiate between normal and abnormal behaviour.
- Provide an overview of historical developments in understanding abnormal behaviour.
- Discuss the role and implications of culture in determining and differentiating between normal
- behaviour and abnormal behaviour (use an example to demonstrate this).
- Discuss the state of mental Health in SA and access to mental health service
1500 -2000 WORDS
APA Style
Sample Answer
Mental Health Challenges in South Africa: Understanding Normal and Abnormal Behaviour
Introduction
Mental health is a vital part of overall well-being, but it often receives less attention, especially in developing countries like South Africa. This essay aims to explore mental health by discussing what makes behaviour normal or abnormal, the history behind how abnormal behaviour has been understood, and the impact of culture on these definitions. It also looks at the current state of mental health in South Africa, especially access to services.
Defining and Differentiating Between Normal and Abnormal Behaviour
Normal behaviour refers to actions or thoughts that fit within what is socially accepted in a certain culture or society. It allows a person to function well in daily life, build relationships, and manage stress.
Abnormal behaviour, on the other hand, often involves thoughts, emotions or actions that are disturbing, harmful, or interfere with a person’s ability to live a normal life. These behaviours are usually seen as signs of mental illness, especially when they are long-lasting and affect daily activities.
According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) (American Psychiatric Association, 2013), abnormal behaviour includes mental health disorders that significantly impact functioning. However, what is considered "normal" can vary depending on time, place, and cultural beliefs.
Historical Developments in Understanding Abnormal Behaviour
In ancient times, abnormal behaviour was often blamed on supernatural forces such as evil spirits or curses. People with mental illness were sometimes treated with cruel methods like exorcisms, beatings, or imprisonment.
During the Greek period, Hippocrates, a famous physician, suggested that mental illness had natural causes. He believed that an imbalance in bodily fluids called “humours” could affect a person’s behaviour (Butcher et al., 2017).
In the Middle Ages, the idea of demonic possession returned, and many mentally ill people were seen as witches or sinners. This led to further mistreatment and stigma.
By the 18th and 19th centuries, there was a shift towards a more scientific and humane approach. Doctors like Philippe Pinel in France and Dorothea Dix in America introduced the idea of moral treatment. They believed mentally ill people deserved care, kindness, and proper treatment.
In the 20th century, the rise of psychoanalysis, especially the work of Sigmund Freud, helped people understand mental illness as something connected to early life experiences and unconscious thoughts. Later developments included the biological model, which links mental illness to brain function and genetics, and the cognitive-behavioural approach, which focuses on changing unhelpful thoughts and behaviours.
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