Psychological disorders

Abstract

Chapter 11 commences with an exploration of the concept of abnormality, addressing common myths associated with mental illness. It further defines abnormality using the frameworks of statistical infrequency, violation of social norms, failure to function, and deviation from ideals. The biopsychosocial model, which takes into account biological, psychological, and social factors contributing to mental disorders, is discussed. Subsequently, the chapter examines the classification of psychological disorders using this model. Special attention is given to four different classification systems: The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM), the International Classification of Diseases (ICD), the Psychodynamic Diagnostic Manual (PDM), and the Chinese Classification of Mental Disorders (CCMD). The chapter then delves into the potential causes and treatments of various disorders, including anxiety and mood disorders, schizophrenia, dissociative disorders, somatoform disorders, personality disorders, and sexual dysfunctions. Notably, ample attention is devoted to the manifestation of these mental disorders in Asian cultures. The chapter culminates in deriving a cultural understanding of mental disorders