The Concept of “Normality” in Medical and Psychological Sciences: Differences and Interconnections

Abstract

The "normal-abnormal" continuum is one way to organize models of operational interventions, and to define various professional roles, especially in medicine, psychiatry, and psychology. In these fields the diagnostic process draws on the concept of normality to distinguish between healthy and pathological states and draws conclusions about prognosis, treatment, and cure. In psychiatry and psychology, unlike in medicine, diagnosis is often a problematic and controversial process because of the lack of clear boundaries between normal and psychopathological states. This has practical consequences for the work of professionals and the way patients are treated. In this work we make some epistemological observations about the relationship between diagnostic processes and normality. In particular, we consider some specific terms relating to the diagnostic process and the concept of "normality" in order to distinguish between the medical and clinical-psychological implications of intervention.

Mental health practitioners’ narratives about gender transition and the role of diagnosis: A qualitative study in the Italian context

“…Given the uncertainties that can accompany the diagnosis and the impossibility of ensuring an entirely objective approach (Iudici et al., 2017; Neri et al., 2020; Whooley, 2010), it is important to focus more on the complexity and the contextuality of each experience, rather than on the hypothetical ontological properties of phenomena. Understanding personal history is useful to formulate a path adapted to the individual's specific needs (Anzani et al., 2019; Brown et al., 2018).…”

“…working with non‐binary people). For these reasons, diagnosis is not just configured as a theoretical and operative tool, but as a concept and practice consistent with the systems of beliefs, values and sociocultural and historical references embraced by the practitioner (Arfini, 2007; Garosi, 2012; Gergen, 2009; Hilario, 2018; Iudici et al., 2020; Neri et al., 2020; Riggs et al., 2019; Rinaldi, 2006).…”

What is <em>therapeutic</em>? Analysis of the narratives available on Italian Addiction Rehab Centres’ Sites to present the therapeutic programme

“…But this is constituted as a reality through an analogical and metaphorical device (Cipolletta, Fassoni & Faccio, 2018 ). The problem of the false analogy between medicine and psychology needs to be expanded beyond these introductory considerations and requires a much broader discussion (Szasz, 1961 ; Wascul & Vannini, 2016; Salvini, 2006 ; Neri, Iudici & Faccio, 2020 ; Iudici, Salvini, Faccio & Castelnuovo, 2015 ). We just want to remember that the knowledge about the brain does not offer simple maps about mind functioning and vice versa (here it suffices to recall the dilemmas related to the body/mind relationship).…”

Trans people’s attitudes and beliefs regarding the diagnosis of “gender dysphoria”: Research in the Italian context.

“…Though it is not specifically required by law, it is necessitated by the everyday institutional practices of courts, hospitals, and other services involved in gender transition. There is a risk, however, that this process will not limit the pathologization and stigma (Neri, Iudici, & Faccio, in press) that can accompany trans people’s pursuit of the legal, physical, or social changes that transitioning calls for.…”