The role played by the concept of “teleology” in identification of mental “disorder” criteria in materialistic psychology

This article addresses the concept of "teleology" (goal-directedness) as a key principle that shapes attitude toward human beings and the universe, consequences of its elimination in materialistic-based psychology as well its divergence from the psychology based on Islamic perspective on human beings and the universe in three chapters. The first chapter starts by defining “teleology” and its relevant concepts. It then proceeds with a brief explanation of the course of evolution of teleologyin the history of western thought. In the second chapter the consequences of elimination of "teleology" are discussed to explain “formation and development” in all sciences that address the issue of development and to define “mental disorder” criteria. The third chapter elaborates on the place of "teleology" and its meaning in ontology and anthropology on the basis of Islamic teachings. The key role played by teleological perspective on human beings and the universe in the Islamic teachings makes fundamental changes in defining “formation and development” at the level of human activities. It also contributes to defining and developing criteria for mental disorders. The chapter goes on to criticize "adaptation" as a key factor in defining normality and disorder in materialistic-based psychology. It then suggests "orientation" as the most significant criterion for defining mental disorder due to the importance attached to teleology in the universe and Islamic anthropology. The article concludes with assessing application of this criterion in clinical and educational psychology.