Why Violating Cultural Norms can be Tied to a Disorder
It is not unusual for individuals to break cultural norms at some point in their lives. Religion, tradition, and cultural practices govern many aspects of human behavior, from dress codes to social behaviors. However, when people ignore or disobey these norms repeatedly, it could be an early sign of a mental health problem or disorder.
For some cultures, there are behavioral expectations that members of the community must obey. Violating these expectations could lead to social isolation, stigmatization, and even punishment. In some cases, individuals who deliberately violate these norms may suffer the negative consequences of social rejection, thereby affecting their psychological well-being.
Studies have shown that individuals who continually flout societal norms may have underlying mental health problems. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) defines Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) as a condition where individuals have a pattern of disobedience, hostility, and purposely defy authority figures’ rules.
Individuals with ODD often exhibit a pervasive pattern of negativity, defiance, and hostility toward authority figures, such as teachers or parents. Such individuals may dismiss common societal norms, including etiquette and manners, without showing any remorse. There are also cases where individuals with ODD may engage in violent behavior, including physical and verbal aggression.
Another disorder tied to the violation of cultural norms is Conduct Disorder (CD). CD is a disruptive, repetitive aggressive behavior among children and adolescents; it’s more severe than ODD. Children with this disorder may show aggression towards people and animals, damage property, steal or deceive others. Notably, the severity of the symptoms determines the diagnosis of CD.
Individuals with these two disorders may develop other mental health problems, such as ADHD, anxiety, or depression, if these disorders go untreated. Similarly, individuals who break societal norms may face social stigma, rejection, and isolation, leading to emotional distress, social anxiety, and other psychological problems, such as low self-esteem.
In conclusion, mental health disorders such as ODD and CD can manifest through a consistent disregard for societal and cultural norms. It is essential to acknowledge the effects of cultural expectations on behavior, and early identification and treatment of mental health conditions could prevent the continued violation of cultural behaviors and the development of more complex disorders. Cultural competency should also be prioritized in therapy to understand the effects of societal norms on the client’s life. Early intervention will decrease the risk of long-term mental health problems and equip individuals with the necessary tools to lead a fulfilling life.
