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Abnormal Psychology, 2004.
An analysis of the definition of abnormal psychology.
831 words (approx. 3.3 pages), 3 sources, MLA, AU$ 46.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses the field of abnormal psychology. The paper contends that there are many divergent and opposing views of what can be defined as abnormal. The paper claims that the definition of abnormal psychology is part of the fascination of the subject and that there is considerable debate with regard to the exact parameters of this field of psychology. There are a wide and often overlapping number of pathologies that are considered under the rubric of abnormal psychology and psychiatry. These include schizophrenia, as well as various anxiety, personality, and dissociative disorders. The range of abnormal psychological disorders has, in recent years, been extended to include abuse and dependence disorders, as well as eating disorders and sexual and gender identity complexes. The paper discusses all of these disorders that are considered as being within the field of abnormal psychology.
From the Paper
"A general definition of Abnormal psychology is as follows: "Abnormal psychology can broadly be defined as the application of the principles of psychology to the study of mental disorders, including research into the causes and treatment of psychopathologies." (Introduction to Abnormal Psychology) The central and most controversial aspect of abnormal psychology is the issue surrounding the meaning of the term 'abnormal'. In other words, what precisely constitutes an abnormal psychological state? There is no single and conclusive view of what is 'abnormal' and each theoretical approach is determined by underlying assumptions about the meaning of this term."
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Abnormal Psychology, 2004.
This paper discusses abnormal psychology as an evolving discipline that considers a generally wide range of disorders.
2,460 words (approx. 9.8 pages), 7 sources, APA, AU$ 117.95
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Abstract
This paper explains the importance, when considering a definition of ?abnormal psychology?, of realizing that no definition is more ?correct? than any other definition; all of them must be used in terms of better understanding a patient and, ultimately, identifying a diagnosis. The author points out that one of the more important texts to consider when consulting on a mood disorder is the "DSM-IV", which lists all of the most important mood disorders and offers a basic list of symptoms. The paper explores an important subset of abnormal psychology, mood disorders, which are increasingly treatable with new medicines like SSRIs, which enable sufferers of these conditions to lead productive and normal lives.
From the Paper
"There is a wide variety of ?abnormal? behaviors ranging from anxiety to mood disorders to abnormal sexual behaviors. Indeed, these particular disorders typically have a very heavy physical and chemical component that exists within the brain. The basic brain chemistry involved has to do with ?neurotransmitters? which are simply the pathways in the brain that help and enable the easy flow and transmission of information between cells in the brain. A presynaptic cell releases, effectively, tiny little packets of serotonin cells which are released into the synapse and then, to different degrees, accepted by the serotonin receptors in the synapse. Theoretically, in a normal and healthy brain, this process should occur in a smooth and relatively unabated fashion, but in an abnormal brain, a wide variety of difficulties can occur."
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A History of Abnormal Psychology, 2002.
Reviews the history of abnormal psychology as a history of mental illness and the various influences that have advanced the research and treatment of mental illness.
2,400 words (approx. 9.6 pages), 6 sources, AU$ 139.95
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Abstract
Beginning with primitivism and concluding with the technological and specialized classification and diagnostic tools of 21st century psychology, this review examines the recursive cycles of humanitarian approaches to psychology. The fleeting appearances of a morality and value system in psychology indicate a change in modern techniques is over-due. This paper concludes with a summary of structural and functional approaches to psychology and emphasizes the lack of interconnected theories that might illuminate treatments of abnormal psychology.
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Abnormal Psychology, 2006.
This paper discusses the characteristics, treatments and potential outcomes of three abnormal psychological conditions: Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, anorexia nervosa and schizophrenia.
1,305 words (approx. 5.2 pages), 7 sources, APA, AU$ 70.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that abnormal psychology is generally concerned with undesirable behaviors, which, since the early 1900s, have been classified and updated yearly in the DSM-IV that is used by professionals to help identify mental illnesses. The author explains that attention-deficit disorder and disruptive behavior (ADHD), which runs in the family, was once thought to be only a childhood disorder but research shows that it continues into adulthood. The paper relates that the treatment for schizophrenia demands medication, such as Risperdal, Zyprexa, and Clozaril, along with psychotherapy; however, sometimes hospitalization is necessary during an active phase of the illness.
From the Paper
"Unfortunately with behavioral disorders, relapses are triggered by stressful events and the majority of people in this world go through many stressful events in their lifetime. As for people with schizophrenia, they will never return to a fully normal and healthy life. The disorders symptoms can be controlled with medications and therapy. One problem they are left with is permanent side effects from the medications they have to take over their life times, which can be undesirable in social and occupational settings. Treatments are constantly changing and hopefully someday the outlook for all disorders will be bright. But we need to understand what the outcome can be so we can pass on to our patients what they can achieve."
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Gender and Cultural Issues in Abnormal Psychology, 2004.
An examination of the issues of gender and culture in abnormal psychology.
1,320 words (approx. 5.3 pages), 5 sources, MLA, AU$ 70.95
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Abstract
This paper argues that gender and culture play a significant role in the defining of abnormal behavior. Socially-defined gender roles and characteristics frequently place unreal expectations and pressures on individuals, women in particular. It looks at how the desire on the part of Western women to conform to male ideals of womanhood can cause them to view their own bodies and personalities in a negative context.
From the Paper
"Such discoveries lead naturally into discussions of cross-cultural as well as intra-cultural differences as they relate to attitudes toward the role of women, and toward what is considered ?abnormal? vs. normal. The fact that different societies possess different ideas of masculine and feminine norms speaks eloquently to the notion that these are not biologically-determined characteristics. ?Cultures set a range of opportunities for development; they define the limits of what is desirable, ?normal,? individual variation, and what is ?abnormal? in that culture (although there is some cultural consensus that some forms of deviance and psychopathology are abnormal).? (Reese & Franzen, 1997, pp. 4-5) Recent studies of non-Western peoples have resulted in the discovery that many linkages between emotional and mental states on the one hand, and psychoses or neuroses on the other, are quite different from those connections observed in the West. Even in so seemingly simple a case as the expression of anger (and thus whatever problems its inappropriate expression might entail), there are significant differences from culture to culture: Whereas Eskimos seldom display anger, others employ elaborate and complex means of expressing anger. Likewise, other cultures encourage (i.e., Iranians) or discourage (i.e., Navajos) displays of extreme sadness and sorrow. (Manson, Bechtold, Novins & Beals, 1997, p. 139) By the same token, ?Within-group differences also are evident along these lines, most notably in terms of social class and gender, especially for dysphoria and excessive worry. This appears to be true among mainstream Americans as well as such ethnic minorities as Indians and Natives.? (Manson, Bechtold, Novins & Beals, 1997, p. 139)"
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Abnormal Psychology Needs a Sociocultural Model, 2002.
This paper reviews the concept of abnormal behavior and comments on the need to evaluate and treat this behavior within a cultural context.
1,025 words (approx. 4.1 pages), 8 sources, APA, AU$ 57.95
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Abstract
The author states that behavioral and scientific abnormal psychology models do not apply in our modern, multicultural society. The paper reviews, in detail, throughout history, the definitions and theoretical interpretations of abnormal behavior. The author believes that sociocultural psychology, which takes into account an individual?s society, family, and culture, offers a more comprehensive view of abnormal psychology. She states that the relative lack of ethnographic data on specifically defined cultural groups is a problem especially when working within immigrant communities.
From the Paper
"The ancient Greeks were revolutionary in this regard. In the fourth century B.C.E., Hippocrates believed that some kind of physical malady was responsible for mental disorders. In fact, the ?father of modern medicine? may be the first person to attribute mental illness to biological causes. Even with his primitive understanding of the human body and attribution of mental illness to the ?humors,? Hippocrates recognized the importance of diet, stress, and heredity on mental illness. Hippocrates even described disorders we catalog in the DSM today: depression, paranoia, Alzheimer?s, and alcoholism. Steering away from superstitious, supernatural explanations of abnormal behavior was an immense step forward in the treatment of those who suffered with mental illness."
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Topics of Abnormal Psychology, 2002.
This paper looks at some areas of concern to those who work in the mental health field.
4,300 words (approx. 17.2 pages), 1 source, AU$ 178.95
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Abstract
This paper is an in-depth examination of the field of abnormal psychology and the treatment of mental illness. This paper examines the many different components of this field, including the historical treatment and explanation of mental iIllness, the role of the criminal justice system as a tool used to treat the mentally ill and the benefits and dangers of using labels in mental health. The author also looks at different models that have been applied in this field and presents both the advantages and disadvantages to their use. Also examined in detail is the treatment of children, uses and abuses of medication and child's rights when being treated by a therapist.
The following is a table of contents for the paper:
Historical Treatment and Explanation of Mental Illness
Criminal Justice System as Treatment for Mentally Ill
The Benefits and Dangers of using Labels in Mental Health
What is Concordance?
Advantages and Disadvantages of the Medical Model Approach to Mental Disorders
Inter-Rater Reliability of the DSM-IV
Why has ADHD?s prevalence recently increased so dramatically?
Who should have control over the treatment of children?
The right of the mentally ill to have children
What are: Mental Retardation, Pervasive Developmental Disorders, and Learning Disorders?
There is a bibliography, but no footnotes or endnotes.
From the Paper
"The advantages of this view include getting faster results, attaining functionality, and avoiding stigmatization through labeling. The medical model?s approach of treating the behaviour can often achieve much faster results because it does not spend time searching for an often difficult to find, underlying cause. It treats what is already obvious, the behaviour, and thus can attain much faster results. The medical model is also capable of restoring a person to a level of functionality much faster than the non-medical model. By treating the behaviour problems, a person can become able to function within their daily lives. The medical model would advocate teaching coping skills rather than trying to cure the unconscious causes of behaviour, which they may not even admit exist. Another advantage of the medical model is that it avoids the labeling associated with the traditional diagnoses offered by the DSM-IV. By only treating the behaviour, the medical model does not provide a label for the patient and thus avoids the associated stigmatization of labeling."
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Abraham Maslow and Third Force Psychology, 2006.
This paper examines the studies of psychologist Abraham Maslow and third force psychology also known as the humanistic approach to psychology which believes that all people are inherently good.
3,029 words (approx. 12.1 pages), 28 sources, APA, AU$ 140.95
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Abstract
This in-depth paper explores Maslow's career as a trained experimental and quantitative psychologist who rebelled against the current model of abnormal psychology and began to investigate normal individuals for aspects of mental health. This paper also discusses Maslow's critical view of Sigmund Freud's theories. During his career Maslow studied great figures in history including: Abraham Lincoln, Albert Schweitzer and Mahatma Gandhi while he concentrated on the healthy aspects of the human psyche.
His theory of hierarchical needs and the concept of self-actualization arose out of this historical investigation.
Topics covered in this report include:
A Short History of Psychology
Maslow's Rebellion Against Freud, Watson and Skinner
Maslow's Emphasis on the Healthy Personality
The Hierarchy of Needs
Peak Experiences Defined
Maslow's Research on Self Actualizing Personalities
Maslow and Management - a Renaissance of Third Force Psychology
How Can Self-Actualization Assist Societal Growth in the Future?
Conclusion
Footnotes
References
From the Paper
"Abraham Maslow was one of the great personality theorists to emerge from the school of Neo-Freudism. This was a period when therapists were attempting to go beyond Freudian concepts and redefine clinical psychology through other techniques. Some of the reasons they felt compelled to try new ways of communicating with their patients were multi fold. First, psychoanalysis was a very long and expensive process for the patient and it also required that the therapist become a Doctor of Medicine before studying psychoanalysis."
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Abnormal Behavior, 2005.
A look at the characteristics of what can be considered abnormal behavior.
1,157 words (approx. 4.6 pages), 4 sources, MLA, AU$ 62.95
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Abstract
This paper attempts to answer the question of what is abnormal behavior and how the field of abnormal psychology seeks to find answers to this question through psychological inquiry. It considers the influence of culture and gender when making decisions about the psychological status of persons and explains the four different diagnostic categories.
From the Paper
"When we trace the history of the treatment of the mentally ill, we can appreciate how far we have come in a very short period of time. Historically, the treatment of persons' suffering from mental illness was awful. Prehistoric and Ancient - During this period, the belief was that demons and evil spirits possessed mentally ill persons. Trephining (surgically chipping away part of the skull) was used to release these evil spirits. Exorcism was also used and person's were flogged and starved to rid them of the evil spirits.Hippocrates during the Greco-Roman era believed that there was a scientific explanation for mental disorders and he focused on brain dysfunction. "
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Experimental Psychology, 2007.
This paper discusses the Zimbardo prison study and its implications on experimental and global psychology.
1,981 words (approx. 7.9 pages), 6 sources, MLA, AU$ 98.95
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Abstract
The paper explains that the prison study created an abnormal environment in order to examine the reactions of regular people to this environment. The paper details the study and illustrates the humiliation and control techniques used. The paper shows how this abnormal psychology study helped researchers understand how humiliation and confinement affect the mind, how people cope with those situations and how power can corrupt people.
From the Paper
"The study began with newspaper ads recruiting college students to be prisoners for two weeks. Twenty-four applicants were finally were approved for the study. They were divided into two groups, guards and prisoners, totally randomly. The actual "prison" was constructed in the basement of the Stanford psychology building, and it contained cells and a "yard" (actually a corridor) where the prisoners could exercise once each day. The researchers consulted law enforcement officers, ex-convicts, and other experts to make the entire prison experience as realistic as possible. The prison cells looked remarkably realistic; it even contained a "hole" or solitary confinement cell for prisoners who misbehaved."
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Textbooks on the Subject of Dissociative Identity Disorder, 2001.
A Comparison of Three Textbooks on the Subject of Dissociative Identity Disorder: "Psychology" By John W. Santrack, "Essentials of Abnormal Psychology in a Changing World" By Jeffrey S. Nevid & Beverly Greene and "Abnormal P..."
1,000 words (approx. 4.0 pages), 3 sources, AU$ 55.95
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Abstract
This paper takes a brief look at these three books, including differences in style and approach to their subject matter.
From the Paper
"All three of the textbooks I compared offer different perspectives on the subject of dissociative identity disorder (DID), but are similar in many ways. One of the ways in which the textbooks are the same is in the way that dissociative identity disorder is defined."
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Children With ADHD, 2004.
An analysis of ADHD in children through a review of the journal article, "Difficulties in Comprehending Causal Relations Among Children With ADHD: The Role of Cognitive Engagement," from the "Journal of Abnormal Psychology".
950 words (approx. 3.8 pages), 1 source, MLA, AU$ 52.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses the journal article, "Difficulties in Comprehending Causal Relations Among Children With ADHD: The Role of Cognitive Engagement," from the "Journal of Abnormal Psychology". The paper claims that this article is a significant report on the condition of ADHD in children. The article opens by acknowledging the significant academic difficulties that are experienced by students with ADHD, which are well-documented in many studies. The paper explains that there has been a significant lack of research documenting the specific ways in which the comprehension and memory processes for complex, interconnected information differ between ADHD and normal children. The paper presents one of the effective methods that may be used to research these comprehension and memory processes: televised stories.
From the Paper
"In order to measure visual attention levels, researchers have had both ADHD and non-ADHD children view one television program in a room with no toys, and another television program in a room with toys. With no toys in the room, both ADHD and non-ADHD children averaged over 90% visual attention to the program. With toys in the room, ADHD children had a far larger drop in the amount of visual attention paid to the program than the non-ADHD children. There was no difference in the understanding of factual events between the groups of children. The ADHD group did have a larger drop in their understanding of causal relations compared to non-ADHD children when toys distracted them from the program. The question, then, is why the ADHD children are able to maintain this understanding of factual events, but not of the causal relations. Possible causes proposed include that children with ADHD shift visual attention more frequently which disrupts the continuity of the story processing, or that ADHD children look at the television for shorter spans of time with toys present which would also impair ability to construct the story."
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post-traumatic stress disorder on children/teenagers, 2005.
A review of literature on the topic of abnormal psychology.
1,350 words (approx. 5.4 pages), 6 sources, APA, AU$ 74.95
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Abstract
This paper is a literature review on a issues related to abnormal psychology, such as (PTSD) post-traumatic stress disorder on children and teenagers. The paper identifies, analyzes, synthesizes and critiques research on PTSD.
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Abnormal Psychology, 2002.
A review of the film "Conspiracy Theory" focusing on the main character's abnormal behavior patterns.
650 words (approx. 2.6 pages), 1 source, AU$ 41.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses abnormal psychology with reference to the character of Jerry Fletcher in the movie "Conspiracy Theory". The character of Jerry was in constant fear of "them" without knowing who those people are. This paranoid perspective makes him behave strangely.
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Abnormal Pituitary Glands of Bipolar and Unipolar Patients, 2002.
This paper reviews an exploratory research study that examined the abnormalities of the pituitary glands of bipolar and unipolar patients in expectation of finding a cure.
540 words (approx. 2.2 pages), 1 source, APA, AU$ 30.95
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Abstract
The author explains that the research question asked if the pituitary glands of bipolar or unipolar patients differ in size from one another or from a control group of healthy participants. MRI images were utilized. The results indicated that patients diagnosed bipolar had significantly smaller pituitary glands than that of the unipolar group and the control group.
From the Paper
"The study was conducted this past year at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, with the patients being between 18 and 65 years old; each participant had been off of medication for at least two weeks. All perspectives that could be recorded through the MRI were observed and measured."
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Abnormal Suicide, 2005.
Examines suicide as other than a rational response to difficulty.
675 words (approx. 2.7 pages), 4 sources, AU$ 41.95
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Abstract
This paper introduces the topic of suicide in Abnormal Psychology as an indication of mental illness, as distinct from romantic cultural and philosophical understandings of choosing to terminate one's life. The paper looks at diverse references reflecting changes in models, over time, largely in response to improved knowledge of biochemical and biological factors, inducing mental illnesses of which suicidal tendencies are a symptom.
From the Paper
"Romantic allegories refer to the heart broken or financially ruined who choose to commit suicide and as Daube described a 'linguistics' of suicide of this more literary variety. (1972) However, suicide is usually a manifestation of known impairments in judgement and impulse induced by mental illness. For instance, what is now diagnosed as Major Depression often features suicidal ideation towards severe, often untreated cases in which suicide is attempted or completed. (WHO: 1994) The potential for suicide renders depression a disorder taken seriously by physicians and related professionals with the patient who mentions suicide identified as one for monitoring and therapeutic care."
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