Las 4 "D" de la Psicología Abnormal

Description of the 4 D's when defining abnormality:  

Deviance: this term describes the idea that specific thoughts, behaviours and emotions are considered deviate when they are unacceptable or not common in society. Clinicans must, however, remember that minority groups are not always deemed deviate just because they may not have anything in common with other groups. Therefore, we define an individuals actions as deviate or abnormal when his or her behaviour is deemed unacceptable by the culture he or she belongs to.  

Distress: this term accounts for negative feelings by the individual with the disorder. He or she may feel deeply troubled and affected by their illness.  

Dysfunction: this term involves maladaptive behaviour that impairs the individuals ability to perform normal daily functions such as getting ready for work in the morning, or driving a car. Such maladaptive behaviours prevent the individual from living a normal, healthy lifestyle. However, we must remember that a person's behaviour, who is acting dysfunctional, is not always caused by a disorder. Dysfunctional behaviour may be voluntary, such as engaging in a hunger strike.  

Danger: this term involves dangerous or violent behaviour directed at the individual, or others in the environment. An example of dangerous behaviour that may suggest a psychological disorder is engaging in suicidal activty.

In order for a clinician to determine whether someone has a psychological disorder or illness, all four D's must be present in combination with other factors.