The term abnormal behavior in psychology is used to refer to a type of behavior, thoughts or feelings which are not normal or socially acceptable, which normally results in distress or disrupts normal daily functioning. It cannot be defined by one factor but instead it can be characterized as a union of factors, such as statistical rarity, violation of social norms, personal distress and disabilities in key areas of life.
In case of a point, habitual acute sadness, extreme anxiety or obsessive rituals can be considered as abnormal when they interfere with the personal relations, performance or health. Contemporary views emphasize the fact that abnormal behavior is not cut and dry as normal or abnormal but exists on a continuum. Empirical studies focus on the importance of biological, psychological and social factors and how genetics, brain functioning, trauma and environment combine to influence behavior. Awareness of abnormal behavior is vital in clinical psychology as it contributes to their diagnosis, treatment, and assistance, as well as leads to compassion and minimizes stigma among the people with mental health problems.