The myth of normality: Consequences for the diagnosis of abnormality and health

Normality, as conceptualized within the field of psychology, represents an inappropriate model for the standardization of diagnostic systems. Normality continues to be confused with health. All human beings represent a composite of strengths and weaknesses. As a result, it should not be anticipated that normal people will be more effective than individuals diagnosed as abnormal in regard to all human characteristics. Creativity is examined as an example of the confusion resulting from ignoring the strengths of abnormal people and the limitations of normal adjustment.