Question

Describe the causes of abnormal behaviour.

Hint:

Remember the biopsychosocial model. For any question about the causes of abnormality, always consider the interplay of {Bio}logy (genes, brain), {Psycho}logy (thoughts, learning), and {Social} factors (family, culture).

Answer 1

The causes of abnormal behavior are complex and multifaceted. Modern psychology uses a biopsychosocial model, which posits that most psychological disorders are the result of an interaction between biological, psychological, and social factors.
1. Biological Causes:
These factors relate to the body's physical and genetic makeup.

Genetics (Heredity): Many disorders, such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, have a genetic component, meaning a predisposition to the disorder can be inherited.
Neurochemical Imbalances: Abnormalities in the levels of neurotransmitters (e.g., serotonin, dopamine) in the brain are linked to various disorders, such as depression and anxiety.
Brain Structure and Function: Damage to or abnormalities in certain areas of the brain can lead to abnormal behavior.
2. Psychological Causes:
These factors relate to an individual's thoughts, feelings, and experiences.

Maladaptive Learning: Abnormal behaviors can be learned through classical conditioning (e.g., phobias), operant conditioning, or observational learning.
Distorted Cognitions: Faulty or irrational thought patterns and beliefs can contribute to disorders like depression and anxiety (a core focus of CBT).
Early Trauma and Unconscious Conflicts: Psychodynamic theories suggest that unresolved conflicts and traumatic experiences from early childhood can lead to abnormal behavior in adulthood.
3. Social and Cultural (Sociocultural) Causes:
These factors relate to the influence of one's environment and culture.

Family and Social Relationships: Dysfunctional family dynamics, social isolation, or poor interpersonal relationships can be significant stressors.
Socioeconomic Factors: Poverty, unemployment, and discrimination are associated with higher rates of mental illness.
Cultural Norms: What is considered "abnormal" can vary across cultures. Cultural expectations can influence both the expression and diagnosis of mental disorders.
The Diathesis-Stress Model is a popular framework that integrates these factors, suggesting that a person may have a pre-existing vulnerability (diathesis) that is triggered by a stressful life event, leading to a disorder.