Psychology and Christianity: “Abnormality” From a Biblical Perspective Essay

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What is regarded as “normal” and “abnormal” types of cognitions and behaviors?

Christianity is a cultural practice which has its values deeply entrenched in Biblical studies. Because of its nature as a culture, Christianity has norms which play a great role in defining abnormality (Noel-Hoeksema, 2019). Notably, the Bible defines abnormality based on thoughts, behaviors, and feelings that please God. Proverbs 6:16-19 (King James Bible, 1769/ 2017) outline what God hates most, and, in this case, the abnormality of sins. However, normality in Christianity can be restored through repentance and that is why God wants Christians to trust only in Him.

What does the Bible say about atypical or aberrant behavior?

There are also types of behavior that do not only affect people themselves but also have negative impact on others. Christians rid themselves of aberrant conducts by advancing their relationship with God through whole-hearted devotion (Houde & Sabates, 2016). In support of this concept, Christians always avoided the actions that cause anguish, pain, and suffering to others, as Jesus taught that they should always be doing to others what they would love being done to them (King James Bible, 1769/2017, Matthew 7:12). Simply put, Jesus was teaching Christians to live a life where they avoid acting in such a way which might cause distress to others.

How do the Bible’s teachings differ from what is now considered “normal” or “abnormal” in your culture or environment?

The Bible as God’s word is right in all religious teachings within the context of Christian setup. Nonetheless, its directives may differ from the cultural practices on concepts of normality and abnormality. For instance, the society within which we live today, glorifies wealth and success is viewed from the basis of material possessions. Opposed to this view is the Bible which teaches that whoever wants to get rich hastily will not go unpunished (King James Bible, 1769/2017, Proverbs 28:20). Clearly, the humans are prone to deviant behaviors and conducts that call for God’s punishments.

How can the Bible’s guidance inform an individual’s notion of abnormality?

Above all, the Biblical teachings can inform an individual’s concept of abnormality. As such, behaviors that are quiescently harmful to others can be regarded as dangerous and can be rectified again through redemption of our sins (Noel-Hoeksema, 2019). Moreover, spiritual evaluation enables the believer to understand from God’s perspective in relation to normal and abnormal behaviors (Houde & Sabates, 2016). As Jesus taught, redemption is only through belief in him and salvation through baptism (King James Bible, 1769/2017, John 3:3). Truly, the salvation that the Bible teaches can change an individual’s view of worldly concepts.

References

Houde, K., & Sabates, A. (2016). Christian anthropology and personhood in the Catholic undergraduate psychology curriculum. Journal of Psychology & Christianity, 35(2).

King James Bible. (2017). King James Bible online. Web.

Noel-Hoeksema, S. (2019). Abnormal psychology (8th ed.). McGraw Hill Education.

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