Compare and Contrast normal and abnormal psychology?

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Read widely and carefully. Take good notes.

To compare and contrast normal and abnormal psychology, we need to understand what each term refers to.

Normal psychology, also known as general psychology, is the branch of psychology that focuses on studying and understanding the mental processes, behaviors, and characteristics of individuals who are considered psychologically healthy and functioning within the expected range of behaviors. Normal psychology aims to define and explain the typical ways in which people think, feel, and behave in everyday life.

Abnormal psychology, on the other hand, is the branch of psychology that examines and investigates mental and behavioral disorders or conditions that deviate from what is considered normal or healthy functioning. Abnormal psychology seeks to identify, classify, and treat various psychological disorders, such as depression, anxiety disorders, schizophrenia, and personality disorders.

Let's delve into how to compare and contrast the two:

1. Focus of Study:
Normal psychology focuses on understanding and explaining the thoughts, emotions, and behaviors that are considered typical and inherent in mentally healthy individuals. It primarily deals with studying and promoting mental well-being.

Abnormal psychology, however, concentrates on studying and treating atypical mental processes, behaviors, and conditions that hinder an individual's ability to function in everyday life. It involves identifying, diagnosing, and treating psychological disorders.

2. Perspective:
Normal psychology primarily takes a positive perspective, aiming to explore and understand the strengths and positive attributes of individuals. It seeks to promote mental health, personal growth, and optimal functioning.

Abnormal psychology takes a more pathological perspective. It focuses on identifying and explaining the causes, symptoms, and treatments of psychological disorders. Its goal is to alleviate distress, reduce symptoms, and improve overall functioning.

3. Criteria for Assessment:
In normal psychology, assessment is based on comparing an individual's thoughts, emotions, and behaviors to standard norms of psychological functioning. It examines how well an individual fits within the expected range of behaviors and characteristics that define psychological health.

In abnormal psychology, assessment is conducted using diagnostic criteria and classification systems, such as the DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders) or the ICD-10 (International Classification of Diseases). These criteria help professionals determine whether an individual meets the criteria for a specific psychological disorder.

4. Treatment Approach:
Normal psychology generally focuses on enhancing well-being and personal development through various therapeutic and positive psychology approaches. It may involve techniques like counseling, coaching, or positive reinforcement.

Abnormal psychology, on the other hand, focuses on diagnosing and treating specific psychological disorders using evidence-based interventions. Treatment approaches may vary depending on the disorder and may include therapies like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), medication, or psychoeducation.

In summary, normal psychology deals with studying and promoting mental health and well-being, while abnormal psychology focuses on understanding, diagnosing, and treating psychological disorders that deviate from normal functioning. By considering the perspectives, assessment criteria, and treatment approaches used in each field, we can better grasp the similarities and differences between them.