Abnormal” Versus “Normal” Behavior

Full Answer Section

Negative influences:

• Stigma and discrimination: People who are perceived as being "abnormal" may be stigmatized and discriminated against. This can lead to social isolation, employment discrimination, and other negative consequences.
• Internalized oppression: People who internalize the dominant culture's definition of "normal" may come to believe that they are flawed or inferior. This can lead to low self-esteem, anxiety, and depression.
• Limited access to opportunities: People who are perceived as being "abnormal" may be denied opportunities for education, employment, and housing.

The concept of "normal" vs. "abnormal" can become a form of oppression for an individual or group in a number of ways.

• Reinforcing inequality: The dominant culture's definition of "normal" is often used to justify and maintain social inequality. For example, people who are perceived as being "abnormal" are often denied access to education, employment, and other resources.
• Silencing dissent: The concept of "normal" can be used to silence dissent and to marginalize those who challenge the status quo. For example, people who speak out against injustice or oppression may be labeled as "deviant" or "crazy."
• Controlling behavior: The concept of "normal" can be used to control people's behavior. For example, people may be afraid to express their true selves or to engage in certain behaviors because they fear being labeled as "abnormal."

Here are some examples of how the concept of "normal" vs. "abnormal" has been used to oppress individuals and groups:

• People with mental health conditions have historically been stigmatized and discriminated against. They have been institutionalized, subjected to forced treatment, and denied access to education, employment, and other resources.
• LGBTQ+ people have also been historically stigmatized and discriminated against. They have been criminalized, fired from their jobs, and denied access to housing and healthcare.
• People of color have been stereotyped and discriminated against based on their race and ethnicity. They have been denied access to education, employment, and housing.
• Women have been oppressed by patriarchal norms that define their roles and behaviors. They have been denied access to education, employment, and political participation.

It is important to challenge the dominant culture's definition of "normal" and to recognize that all people are unique and deserve to be treated with respect. We should also be aware of how the concept of "normal" vs. "abnormal" can be used to oppress individuals and groups.

Here are some things we can do to challenge the oppressive concept of "normal" vs. "abnormal":

• Educate ourselves and others about the history of oppression and the ways in which the concept of "normal" is used to maintain inequality.
• Support organizations that are working to promote social justice and equity.
• Challenge stereotypes and discrimination when we see it happening.
• Create spaces where people can feel safe and accepted for who they are, regardless of whether or not they fit the dominant culture's definition of "normal."

Sample Answer

Ideas about "normal" and "abnormal" human behavior can influence the experience of the individual in a number of ways.

Positive influences:

• Sense of belonging: People who identify with a particular group or community may find comfort and support in knowing that they are not alone and that their experiences are shared by others.
• ** Sense of identity:** People may use their identification with a particular group or community to help them define their sense of self.