Maladaptive Behavior

Maladaptive behavior refers to actions or responses that are counterproductive or harmful to an individual's well-being and daily functioning. These behaviors often arise as coping mechanisms in response to stress or challenges but can lead to problems in personal relationships, work, or health. For example, someone might excessively avoid social situations due to anxiety, which can worsen their feelings of isolation. Recognizing maladaptive behaviors is important for personal growth, as it allows individuals to seek more effective strategies for coping and improve their overall quality of life.