MASENO UNIVERSITY

SCHOOL OF EDUCATION

DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION PSYCHOLOGY

EPY 311: HUMAN BEHAVIOUR, LEARNING

GUIDANCE AND COUNSELLING

DATE OF SUBMISSION: 29TH FEBRUARY 2024

GROUP NO: 110

ADM. NAME SIGN.

EHS/00002/021 MASABA NASIMIYU ABIGAEL
EHS/00016/021 SAID HUKMALLAH ABDALLAH
EHS/00027/021 MULI CAROLINE NZISA
EHS/00035/021 WASIKE MITCHELLE NALIAKA
EHS/00040/021 KOBIA BLESSY MUGURE
EHS/00056/021 RAEL BRENDA AMBIYO
EHS/00068/021 OGWANKWA SHARON KEMUNTO
EHS/00069/021 AWINO MARION AKOTH
EHS/00070/021 WAFULA LAURA KHALAYI
EHS/00073/021 OKOTH QUEENTER CYNTHIA
 1. Abnormal behaviour is a product the society in which an individual belongs.
Abnormal behaviour refers to actions that differ significantly from the expected norms
within a particular culture or society. These difference are often considered distressing or
impairing to an individual’s functioning.
What a given society considers to be abnormal behaviour is something that changes over
time, sometimes dramatically. This is because cultural norms and mores also change,
meaning that the realm of acceptable behaviour shifts over the decades and centuries.
Abnormal behaviour can be influenced by the society in which an individual lives in several
ways:
1. 1. Cultural Norms:
Different cultures have varying norms and expectations regarding behaviour. What is
considered abnormal in one culture may be normal in another. For example, individualistic
cultures may value independence and self-expression, while collectivist cultures may
prioritize conformity and social harmony. This cultural context can shape how abnormal
behaviour is perceived and defined within a society.
2. Social Expectations:
Society sets standards for behaviour through social norms. Deviating from these norms can
be seen as abnormal. For instance, behaviour like talking to oneself in public or wearing
unconventional clothing may be considered abnormal based on societal expectations. These
expectations can influence how individuals behave and how abnormal behaviour is
interpreted by others.
3. Socialization:
Individuals learn acceptable behaviour through the process of socialization within their
society. Family, peers, schools, and media play roles in shaping behaviour. If someone is
exposed to negative influences or lacks appropriate socialization, it can contribute to the
development of abnormal behaviour. Socialization helps individuals understand and conform
to societal norms, reducing the likelihood of exhibiting abnormal behaviour.
4. Stigma:
Society often stigmatizes individuals who display abnormal behaviour, leading to
discrimination and marginalization. Stigma can prevent individuals from seeking help or
support, further exacerbating their condition
5. Globalization:
As societies become more interconnected, there is a blending of cultural influences. This can
lead to a re-evaluation of what is considered normal or abnormal as societies adapt to
globalized
6. Historical Context:
Abnormal behaviour be influenced by historical factors, including changes in societal
attitudes towards mental health. For instance, how certain mental illnesses are perceived and
treated has evolved over time, reflecting broader social understanding.
In summary understanding abnormal behaviour of the society requires considering the
dynamic and the varied societal influences on individuals actions and mental health.
This societal influence can be seen in cultural differences, where behaviours accepted in one
culture might be deemed abnormal in another. Social constructs shape our understanding of
normalcy, emphasizing the dynamic and contextual nature of the concept of abnormality
within the framework of a given society.

Question 2

Discuss how cultural and societal norms influence self identify and self awareness. How
do this differ for individual from various background?

Societal norms are unwritten rules or expectations that govern behavior within a group or
community. These norms are often based on shared values and customs, shaping how
individuals interact and behave in various social contexts. Examples include politeness,
respect for personal space, or expectations around punctuality.
Cultural norms are similar but operate within the broader context of a particular culture or
society. They encompass shared beliefs, values, traditions, and behaviors that characterize a
specific group. Cultural norms influence how individuals within that culture perceive
themselves and others, guiding everything from language use to social roles.
How Cultural and Societal Norms Influence Self-Identity and Self-Awareness:
1. Formation of Identity:
Cultural norms provide a framework for identity formation. For example, in a culture valuing
academic achievement, an individual may derive their self-worth from educational success.
2. Social Roles and Expectations:
Societal norms dictate roles based on factors like gender, influencing self-identity. For
instance, in cultures with traditional gender norms, women may identify strongly with
caregiving roles.
3. Norms as a Reference Point:
Cultural norms serve as a reference point for self-evaluation. Individuals may assess their
actions against societal expectations, impacting their self-awareness. For instance, adherence
to punctuality norms may influence how someone perceives their own reliability.
 4. Social Validation:
Adherence to cultural norms often brings social validation, contributing to positive self-
perception. Conversely, deviation may lead to feelings of alienation or self-doubt.

5. Cultural Scripts:
Cultural norms provide scripts for behavior in various situations, guiding individuals’ actions.
For example, greetings and expressions of politeness vary across cultures, influencing self-
awareness in social interactions.
6. Language and Communication Styles:
Cultural norms shape language use and communication styles. An individual may develop a
self-awareness linked to their communication patterns, influenced by cultural expectations.

Differences for Individuals from Various Backgrounds:

1. East Asian Background:

Cultural norms emphasizing humility may lead to a self-identity focused on modesty and
avoiding self-promotion.
2. African Background:
Communal values may shape self-identity, emphasizing interconnectedness with the
community and contributing to a shared cultural identity.
3. Western Individualistic Background:
Emphasis on personal achievements may lead to a self-identity tied to individual goals and
accomplishments.

4. Indigenous Background:
Strong connections to nature and spirituality may influence self-identity, grounding it in a
holistic relationship with the environment.

5. LGBTQ+ Identity:
Societal norms around sexual orientation and gender identity can significantly impact the
self-identity of individuals within the LGBTQ+ community, influencing how they navigate
societal expectations.
6. Immigrant Experience:
Immigrants often navigate a dual identity, incorporating elements from both their country of
origin and their adopted culture. This dual identity can shape a unique self-awareness.

7. Neurodivergent Background:
Individuals with neurodivergent backgrounds may develop a self-identity that embraces
neurodiversity, challenging societal norms around neurotypical behavior.
8. Socioeconomic Background:
Socioeconomic status influences access to resources, impacting self-identity. For example, an
individual from a disadvantaged background may develop resilience as a core aspect of their
identity.

In essence, cultural and societal norms serve as powerful influencers of self-identity and self-
awareness. The differences for individuals from various backgrounds illustrate the rich
tapestry of human experiences, shaped by the interplay of cultural, societal, and individual
factors.