Norms of Adjustment and Social Behavior

Abstract

The social behavior and adjustment of 450 nonpatients, randomly drawn from the general population of a metropolitan county, were measured by a rating scale widely used in mental health research: the Katz Adjustment Scales. Variations by sex, age, marital status, and social class suggest that relevant differences be considered when clinical judgments of adjustment are made concerning former psychiatric patients. The field study relies on the reports of a close family member and focuses exclusively on current behavior. These methodologic innovations frequently confirm, but at times challenge, the results of previous studies. Results are presented with a view toward enhancing empirically defined definitions of normality.