What defines a psychological disorder?

A psychological disorder is characterized by a set of behavioral symptoms that significantly impact multiple areas of life, such as social, occupational, or other important functioning. This definition underscores the importance of the disorder affecting an individual’s ability to perform or engage effectively in daily activities.

The focus on symptoms aligns with diagnostic criteria used in clinical psychology, which often includes impairments in functioning and distress that extend beyond what is considered typical behavior for a person. This encompasses various forms of mental health issues, such as mood, anxiety, and personality disorders, which all affect how someone interacts with the world around them.

The other options do not encompass the full scope of what defines a psychological disorder. Acceptable patterns of symptoms indicate cultural norms, while emotional responses to temporary stressors might not meet the criteria for a disorder since they can be contextually appropriate and not indicative of a long-term problem. Additionally, an uncommon personality trait does not necessarily reflect a disorder, as personality traits can exist on a spectrum without causing functional impairment.