What characterizes maladaptive behavior?

Maladaptive behavior is characterized by actions, thoughts, or habits that interfere with an individual's ability to adapt to their environment or to function effectively in their daily lives. This means that such behaviors hinder personal or social functioning, often leading to challenges in relationships, work, or other areas essential for well-being.

For instance, a person exhibiting maladaptive behavior may struggle to maintain friendships or perform competently at their job due to their inability to cope with stress or interact appropriately with others. Unlike behaviors that promote personal success, maladaptive behaviors can lead to negative consequences, such as isolation, distress, or deteriorating mental health.

While maladaptive behavior can manifest in children, it is not exclusive to them, nor does it consistently present in easily identifiable ways. Additionally, maladaptive behavior can occur in various settings beyond academic contexts, including social environments and personal life situations. Therefore, the defining characteristic of maladaptive behavior is its detrimental impact on personal or social functioning, making the choice identifying this aspect the correct answer.