Abnormal psychology is the interpretive and scientific study of abnormal thoughts and behaviors in other to interpret, describe, predict, explain and change abnormal patterns of functioning. It is a branch of psychology concerned with the research into the classification, causation, diagnosis, prevention and treatment of psychological disorders or psychopathology” (Lazarus, 1995 p108).

Abnormal psychology is important in many ways for example, the researches that have been done on many life-threatening disorders helped to find good medications for hem; that is the treatment part of abnormal psychology. It also helps in proper management of medications. Abnormal psychology helps in classification of disorders, which provides us with a nomenclature and enables us to structure information in a more helpful manner. The knowledge of abnormal psychology helps the Masters student with the scientific method of inquiry, like observation and experimentation in studying behaviors rather than believing in mere heresy.

It also helps us with believes in cause and effect relationship which emphasize that every behavior has its root, that is, it’s causing factor. Abnormal psychology helps to understand psychological tests which are constructed and used to critically evaluate case studies for treating different disorders.  Abnormal psychology helps us to describe, observe and measure behaviors and mental processes of our students in the classroom. It helps also to analyze the different theories proposed to develop our understanding of individual differences and to shape counseling and therapeutic interventions in the classroom