A maladaptation is a trait that is more harmful than helpful, in contrast with an adaptation, which is more helpful than harmful. All organisms, from bacteria to humans, display maladaptive and adaptive traits. In animals, adaptive behaviors contrast with maladaptive ones.

What is the meaning of maladaptive behavior?

Maladaptive behaviors are those that stop you from adapting to new or difficult circumstances. They can start after a major life change, illness, or traumatic event. It could also be a habit you picked up at an early age. You can identify maladaptive behaviors and replace them with more productive ones.

What is an example of a maladaptive thought?

cognitive psychotherapy

Maladaptive thinking may refer to a belief that is false and rationally unsupported—what Ellis called an “irrational belief.” An example of such a belief is that one must be loved and approved of by everyone in order to…