Dysfunction In Moondog

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I do not believe that Moondog’s mental state can be based solely off his described actions and clothing choices. According to the book, showing a dysfunction is not enough to assume one has a mental illness because there is a thin line between normal and abnormal behavior. Moondog does not show signs of being in distress or impaired due to the fact he has a goal of obtaining tips for playing his instrument. Though, he has chosen not to follow social norms, which could make one suspect an illness, it can be chalked up to him being just an eccentric person. So, without knowing about other aspects of his life, he cannot be deemed mentally ill.

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