Eccentricity Is Not Abnormal Behaviour

Anything that is unusual, extraordinary or peculiar draws attention. Even if people consider someone to be odd in a repulsive way, they will talk about him/her. People who have unusual habits or carry themselves in a way that is not according to societal norms and current trends are usually labeled as "eccentric." Being eccentric though, is not a bad thing.

Not everyone has the ability to stand out in a crowd and those who manage to set themselves apart from society are often criticized. Most people are unable to accept the fact that someone does not conform to the values and beliefs that are perceived as normal. "Normalcy" however is a subjective matter. For example some may think that it is abnormal for a woman to remain single and live alone, furthermore the fact that she owns six cats puts her in the category of eccentric people. Others however may believe that marriage is a personal choice and would therefore be more empathetic towards her and her cats.

Somebody may be considered eccentric because of cultural differences. If an individual from a varied background is unable to adjust to the local culture then he/she may come across as odd. For example a Japanese girl who insists on wearing her kimono no matter where she goes, despite having moved to the US two years ago, will definitely draw oodles of attention. Similarly, upon moving to a new job certain adjustments in behavior and attitude are expected. Wearing casual flip-flops to work may be perfectly normal at one organization. Another organization may be willing to condone such an informal get up but other employees would still consider it strange and funny, and so the ill dressed new comer will become the butt of many jokes.

Often we find that society is quite cruel and judgmental towards individuals who are a little different. Terms such as "mental", "psycho" and "abnormal" tend to be used when referring to someone who has beliefs and/or behavior patterns which do not sit well with the general population. Examples of such eccentricities could be a man who conceals his acne with foundation, or a woman who is always seen wearing red lipstick and flashy clothes. Such attributes though should not socially limit these individuals. In an ideal world, the society would be tolerant of such peculiarities. What matters most is an individual's sincerity in his/her interactions and relations with others. If a person meets others in a congenial way and is genuine and honest, society should ideally not ostracize someone for being a bit strange or different.

The world however is far from ideal. Eccentricity is mostly categorized as abnormal behavior However, another point to realize is that the word abnormal simply means that something is not typical, or usual. Is being unusual really such a bad thing?



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