Final answer:
The term 'abnormal' is problematic in psychology due to its lack of clarity, specificity, and because it is culturally biased. The concept of what is considered normal can vary widely across different societies and historical periods, making the categorization of abnormality subjective and not universally applicable.
Step-by-step explanation:
In psychology, defining someone or something as 'abnormal' often presents a problem because the term is lacking in clarity and specificity. This definition is inherently vague and dependent on the cultural and historical context of what is considered 'normal.' Moreover, what is normal in one society may be abnormal in another, making the term culturally biased. Rather than offering a precise and objective criterion, labeling someone or something as abnormal can merely reflect a divergence from a perceived norm, which is highly subjective. Hence, the term is not too precise and restrictive, nor is it universally accepted or culturally unbiased.
Additionally, the concept of normality can fluctuate over time and is influenced by a myriad of factors, including social, economic, and environmental changes. For instance, the attribution of abnormality to certain behaviors or conditions may evolve as society's understanding and tolerance levels transform. This is evident with certain psychological conditions that were once considered abnormal, such as homosexuality, now being recognized as normal variations within human sexuality. Incorporating the notion of cultural concepts of distress (CCD), as discussed in the DSM-5, acknowledges that cultural differences significantly impact the expression and interpretation of psychological phenomena. Thus, relying solely on the binary classification of normal and abnormal without considering the cultural specificity and context can lead to misunderstandings and stigmatization.