To each person the definition of what is considered normal and abnormal may vary. There are many different types of behaviors that a person may exhibit; these behaviors can be classified as normal or abnormal. However, there are many factors that pose a challenge in classifying normal and abnormal behavior. This paper will discuss religion, mind/body connection, culture, and how these and a variety of other factors play a role in classifying normal and abnormal behavior.
ReligionThere are many factors that effect behavior ranging from genetic to social influences. These influences create the reasons for behavior whether viewed as normal or abnormal. Religion is a contributing factor to behavior. Although different religions have many similarities, they also have many differences. The practices and beliefs that one person has may cause that individual to seem abnormal or strange to a person that has a different religious belief. For example, Christianity holds the belief that salvation is obtained only by having faith in the sacrificial death of Jesus.
Journal of Abnormal Psychology
Journal of Abnormal Child Psychology
So I was tagged by @thetraintocrazy today. 5 thing...Judaism believes that salvation can only be attained by obedience to the laws of Moses. While both religions share the belief of salvation, both religions would argue the correct way to worship.
Other religions seem to have moral codes that promote abuse and mutilation. Are these practices truly cruel and abnormal or should the practices be tolerated because this is considered normal in the eyes of the particular religion? The Jehovah's Witnesses do not believe in blood transfusions. If a child was sick and his life depended on receiving a blood transfusion the parents, if strict followers to the religion, would forego a transfusion and allow the child to die (Bocco, 2009). Other religions practice mutilation. 28 countries in Africa and the Middle East practice female genitalia mutilation. This practice is not only very...