Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Abnormal behavior refers to patterns of thoughts, feelings, or actions that deviate from what is considered typical or socially acceptable. It is viewed as an illness caused by dysfunctional parts of the organism.
Related terms
Psychopathology: Psychopathology refers to the study of mental disorders and abnormal behavior. It focuses on understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatments of these conditions.
The DSM is a widely used manual in psychology that provides criteria for diagnosing various mental disorders. It helps clinicians classify abnormal behaviors based on specific symptoms.
Biopsychosocial Model: The biopsychosocial model considers biological, psychological, and social factors when explaining abnormal behavior. It emphasizes that multiple factors contribute to the development of mental disorders.