Models of Abnormality

As you noticed in your reading of Chapter 3, contemporary thinking about psychological disorders includes a broad variety of models or paradigms. The list of models includes the following: biological, psychodynamic, behavioral, cognitive, humanistic-existential, and sociocultural. Each model highlights different factors in the development of abnormal behavior and suggests different avenues for the treatment of psychological disorders. In this week’s Discussion, you will more closely examine these models and compare and contrast two of your own choosing.

To prepare for this Discussion:

• Review the central tenets of the theoretical models presented in Chapter 3 of Abnormal Psychology.

• Pay particularly close attention to the “Putting It Together” section and Table 3-4 entitled “Comparing the Models,” which begin on page 92.

• Identify two models which you find most intriguing, and examine each very closely.

With these thoughts in mind:

Post by Day 4 a brief description of each of the two models that you have chosen to compare and contrast. Then, compare and contrast these two models of abnormality, focusing on how each explains the development of psychological disorders and the approaches to treatment that the models suggest. Finally, name the model that you believe offers the more powerful and convincing explanation for the development of psychological disorders. Justify your choice.

Note: Include in the first line of your post the two models you are comparing. You will be asked to respond to a colleague who compares at least one model that is different from the ones you examined.