maladaptive behavior
Her maladaptive behavior of avoiding social interactions worsened her anxiety.
She copes by avoiding people, which makes her anxiety worse.
Behavior that is counterproductive or harmful in the long term, often developed as a coping mechanism for stress or trauma
The therapist identified his self-sabotaging job interviews as maladaptive behavior stemming from childhood insecurity.
His poor interview performance was a harmful coping strategy from his past.
Maladaptive behaviors like substance abuse may provide temporary relief but create long-term problems.
These behaviors seem helpful short-term but cause bigger issues later.
Often contrasted with 'adaptive behavior' which helps individuals cope effectively.
Collocations
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Clinical vs. casual usage
This phrase is technical and used in psychology. Avoid using it in everyday conversation.
Gold Rule
Key distinction
Maladaptive behaviors provide short-term relief but create long-term problems.
Word Origin
From 'mal-' (bad) + 'adaptive' (adjusting) + 'behavior' (actions). Coined in psychology to describe harmful coping mechanisms.
Usage Notes
Common in clinical psychology to describe behaviors that seem helpful short-term but cause long-term harm. Not used in everyday conversation.