Final answer:
The pathological theory of normalcy, connected to the germ theory of disease, defines normalcy as the absence of disease, while the statistical theory defines it based on averages and norms within a population. The pathological theory seeks to treat and maintain health, whereas the statistical theory aims to understand and contextualize individual behaviors within societal norms.
Step-by-step explanation:
The two theories of normalcy referred to in this question—the pathological theory derived from medicine and the statistical theory from psychology—offer different approaches to understanding what is considered 'normal' within a population. The pathological theory, closely associated with the germ theory of disease, is primarily concerned with identifying what deviates from a state of health based on the presence of specific symptoms or conditions that can be objectively diagnosed and treated. In this view, normalcy is defined by the absence of disease or dysfunction. In contrast, the statistical theory of normalcy, rooted in psychological and sociological studies, relies on the collection and analysis of data to establish norms. This approach identifies what is typical or average within a population at certain developmental stages. Accordingly, normalcy is defined by what most people experience or exhibit, and anything significantly deviating from these statistical norms is considered abnormal. The underlying goal of the pathological theory is to treat and prevent diseases to achieve and maintain a healthy society—one that is stable and functions well, according to Emile Durkheim's sociological perspectives. Meanwhile, the statistical theory aims to understand behaviors and developmental milestones to contextualize an individual's experiences within the spectrum of what is commonly observed in society.