In the harmful dysfunction definition of psychological disorders, dysfunction involves ________.

• A. temporary emotional distress in response to everyday stressors
• B. a breakdown in mental functioning that prevents adaptive behavior
• C. behaviors that violate social norms regardless of harm
• D. the presence of unusual or rare behaviors in an individual

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that the harmful dysfunction definition of psychological disorders combines two key components: 'harmful' and 'dysfunction'.
2. Recognize that 'harmful' refers to the negative impact or distress caused by the condition, often judged by social or personal standards.
3. Focus on the 'dysfunction' part, which involves a failure or breakdown in normal psychological processes or mental functioning.
4. Identify that this dysfunction must interfere with the individual's ability to adapt or function effectively in daily life.
5. Conclude that in this definition, dysfunction specifically means a breakdown in mental functioning that prevents adaptive behavior, rather than just temporary distress, social norm violations, or rarity of behavior.