adjective
- characterized by poor adjustment to environmental demands or social situations; showing inability to cope effectively with stress or change
Usage: psychology; formal
Examples
- The therapist identified several maladjustive behaviors that were interfering with his relationships.
- Her maladjustive response to stress included avoiding all social contact.
- The study examined maladjustive coping mechanisms in adolescents.
- Maladjustive patterns often develop during childhood trauma.
- The counselor worked to replace maladjustive habits with healthier alternatives.
- His maladjustive tendencies made it difficult for him to succeed in the workplace.