Strength:
gives clear indication of what behaviour isn’t desirable
Takes into account the effects of the behaviour on others
Helpful in deciding whether the abnormal behaviour indicates presence of a mental disorder requiring treatments
Weakness:
Cultural relativism: something might or not be acceptable in different cultures
Era dependent: social norms vary over time.
Strength:
Includes subjective experiences of patient
Recognises the importance of individual’s perspective
Weakness:
Difficult to distinguish function issues or just deviation from social norm
Requires judgement from external person-judgement on the GAF scale is subjective and depends on observers opinion
Strength:
Comprehensive and positive approach
Broad range of criteria, covering reasons why someone would seek help
Focuses on on desirable behaviours rather than individual failures (positive)
Weakness:
Cultural relativism
Unrealistic standards-very few people meet the criteria, therefore would clarify most people as abnormal.