Andrew has begun stalking a local celebrity, convinced she is sending him secret mental messages. He has not physically harmed her but he has been arrested for trespassing several times and he can't stay employed because he misses work in order to follow his idol. Andrew tells friends and therapists that nothing is wrong and that he is happily waiting for the day that his idol comes running into him arms. Which approach to defining mental illness can best account for Andrew's behaviour?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The fact that Andrew's behavior includes repeated trespassing and interfering with his idol's life suggests that it is indeed harmful to others, even if he has not yet physically harmed anyone. Additionally, his stalking behavior is self-destructive in that it has caused him to lose employment and likely damages his relationships and overall well-being. The other choices, violation of cultural standards, emotional distress, and illegality, do not fully capture the scope of Andrew's behavior and its potential impact on himself and others.

Andrew Has Begun Stalking a Local Celebrity, Convinced She Is