Many view psychological disorders as harmful dysfunctions (Spitzer, 1997; Wakefield, 1997). Behavior is labeled harmful and dysfunctional when judged to be atypical, disturbing, maladaptive, and unjustifiable.

-To be considered disordered, an atypical behavior must also be one that others find disturbing.

-Atypical and disturbing behaviors are more likely to be considered disordered when judged harmful.

-The behaviors must be distressing or disabling or put a person at an increased risk of suffering or death.

-Abnormal behavior is most likely to be considered disordered when others find it unjustifiable.

The Medical Perspective

AKA Mental Health Movement

-A mental illness needs to be diagnosed based on its symptoms and cured through therapy, which may include a stay in a psychiatric hospital.

-Genetically influenced abnormalities in brain structure contribute to a number of disorders.

-In the 1800s, this medical model stated that psychological disorders are sicknesses.

The Bio-Psycho-Social Perspective

-Mind and body are inseparable; we are mind embodied

-All behavior arises from the interaction in nature and nurture.

-Being “mentally ill” is an internal problem, a “sickness” that needs to be found and cured.

-Disorders are influenced by genetic predispositions and physiological states and by inner psychological dynamics.