Adaptive vs Maladaptive Behavior
Adaptive and maladaptive behavior differ in their behavioral patterns. In psychology, these two forms of behavior are opposites. Adaptive behavior is positive and functional for the individual, allowing them to relieve anxiety. On the other hand, maladaptive behavior involves behavioral patterns that are dysfunctional for the individual. This article will explore the differences between these two types of behavior.
What is Adaptive behavior?
Adaptive behavior enables individuals to adapt positively to various situations. It is a functional adjustment to a specific behavior, creating an environment where the individual can develop and grow. In everyday life, if a certain behavior is constructive and productive, it can be considered adaptive behavior.
For example, when someone faces a problem in life, they use various techniques to find solutions by coming to terms with the situation. This is a form of adaptive behavior. Unlike maladaptive behavior, the individual does not run away from or avoid the situation but faces it. This is typically considered healthy behavior.
Key Takeaways
- Adaptive behavior is positive and functional, allowing individuals to relieve anxiety and adapt positively to various situations.
- Maladaptive behavior is negative and dysfunctional, often harming the individual and hindering personal growth.
- Psychologists use various behavioral therapies to treat maladaptive behavioral patterns, focusing on the present condition and helping individuals gain self-control and adjust their behavior.
What is Maladaptive behavior?
Maladaptive behavior can be seen as the direct opposite of adaptive behavior. It is a negative form of behavior that harms the individual. In abnormal psychology, this term is used extensively to refer to conditions that damage the well-being of an individual. When the anxiety that an individual feels is not lessened through their behavior and is only dysfunctional to them, these types of behaviors are considered maladaptive. In this sense, maladaptive behavior is coping mechanisms that are not productive. Instead of relieving the anxiety and tension that the individual feels, it leads to the creation of further health problems. For example, substance abuse is a maladaptive behavior that harms the individual even though it provides momentary relief. In the long run, this is dysfunctional to the individual as it can lead to severe health conditions.
Maladaptive behavior does not lead to personal growth and development of the individual but causes their downfall. On one level, it hinders the development of the individual, where they feel unable to find a solution to the anxiety experienced. This inability to accept one’s condition leads to disruptions in personal and professional life. Such an individual may encounter difficulties not only in day-to-day chores but also in handling relationships.
Psychologists use various behavioral therapies to treat maladaptive behavioral patterns. In behavioral therapy, the focus is on the present condition. Through methods such as counseling, individuals who suffer from maladaptive behavior realize their true condition by opening up and accepting their anxiety and fears. Then the counselor and the client work together to find a solution to overcome the anxieties. This usually involves gaining more self-control and adjusting one’s maladaptive behavior.
What is the difference between Adaptive and Maladaptive Behavior?
- Definitions of Adaptive and Maladaptive Behavior:
- Adaptive behavior allows individuals to adapt positively to various situations.
- Maladaptive behavior is a negative form of behavior that harms the individual.
- Behavioral Patterns:
- Adaptive behavior is positive and functional for the individual.
- Maladaptive behavior is negative and dysfunctional.
- Relieving Anxiety:
- Adaptive behavior relieves anxiety in a productive manner.
- Maladaptive behavior does not; it forces the individual to avoid the situation or engage in counter-productive behavior.
- Impact:
- Adaptive behavior enables personal growth.
- Maladaptive behavior hinders personal growth.
- Condition:
- Adaptive behavior can be seen in healthy individuals.
- Maladaptive behavior is a symptom of psychological diseases.
