PSY 215 Module One Milestone Template
Using this template, respond to the below prompts, which focus on deconstructing the stigma
associated with abnormal behavior. Support your position with a minimum of 3 to 5 sentences per
bullet, using credible sources. Complete this template by replacing the bracketed text with the relevant
information.
Often a person describes an abnormal behavior as weird—a term that can elicit a range of
emotional responses (e.g., fear, anger, guilt, curiosity, withdrawal, compassion). Describe a
common psychological reaction that a person might have after hearing this description of the
behavior of another person.
Psychological reactions can vary from person to person. I also feel the environment, situation,
and other factors need to be considered. If something is said or done in a negative way, one may
feel discomfort, uneasy, or anxious. If something is said in a joking way amongst friends, one
may laugh or even agree.
Describe why witnessing an abnormal behavior may cause a person to experience psychological
discomfort.
Witnessing abnormal behavior may cause psychological discomfort as it is outside of an
individual’s norm and not something they understand. Due to stigmas, they may have a reaction
of fear or curiosity. In our text, there is an example, “your sense of social discomfort (“Why did
this person sit right next to me when there are many empty seats available?”) (Hooley & Nock,
2024, p.5). Things outside of what we consider normal make us think and/or react.
Describe the feelings a person may experience when witnessing a behavior that deviates from
the norm.
When we witness behaviors that deviate from the norm, we often feel uncomfortable. Some may
feel irritated, while others may feel compassion. If we are educated, we may want to offer help.
“When someone violates an implicit or unwritten social rule, those around him or her may
experience a sense of discomfort or unease” (Hooley & Nock, 2024, p.5).
Ironically, it is normal to perceive abnormal behavior as atypical, uncomfortable, or strange.
However, the labels that we use to describe abnormal behavior could contribute to its stigma. In
your own words, describe how abnormalities in the mind are not really different from other
physical or biological abnormalities.
Abnormalities of the mind are not very different of physical or biological abnormalities. The main
difference is abnormalities of the mind are not immediately seen as physical or biological
abnormalities are. However, both can be debilitating and affect one’s daily life. Negative
stigmas, judgements and labels often come from a lack of understanding and fear. In increasing
awareness, we can hope for more acceptance and empathy for others.
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