maladaptive

[ mal-uh-dap-tiv ]

adjective

1. of, relating to, or characterized by maladaptation or incomplete, inadequate, or faulty adaptation:

   The maladaptive behavior of isolated children was difficult to change.

maladaptive

/ ˌmæləˈdæptɪv /

adjective

1. unsuitably adapted or adapting poorly to (a situation, purpose, etc)
2. not encouraging adaptation

Derived Forms

• ˌmalaˈdaptively, adverb
• ˌmalaˈdapted, adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of maladaptive¹

First recorded in 1930–35; mal- + adaptive

Example Sentences

The new findings, to be published June 5 in Nature, show how using addictive drugs can drive maladaptive myelination of the brain's reward circuitry, which in turn reinforces drug-seeking behavior.

From Science Daily

With chronic loneliness, that stress response gets stuck and becomes disadvantageous — similar to the way in which anxiety can shift a helpful fear response to a maladaptive mental illness.

From Seattle Times

Indeed, stepdads went on to have as many chicks as did the killers over the birds’ lifetimes—upending the established idea that adoption is maladaptive and hinders a stepparent’s reproductive success.

From Science Magazine

The findings were somewhat surprising, uncovering a link between intense psychedelic experiences and reduced levels of maladaptive narcissism.

From Salon

When the right ventricle is forced to pump blood to the whole body, it develops several maladaptive traits, including overly large muscle and scarring.

From Science Daily

Related Words

• maladjusted
• nonadaptive