maladaptive
adjective
mal·adap·tive
ˌma-lə-ˈdap-tiv 
1
: marked by poor or inadequate adaptation
2
: not conducive to adaptation
Examples of maladaptive in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
In other words, while a strong culture is generally good, excessively strong cultures can be maladaptive, eroding thinking, creativity, and diversity.
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Tomas Chamorro-Premuzic, Forbes, 19 Feb. 2025
In fact, doctors have effectively used manipulation of emotional memory in psychotherapy to treat maladaptive behaviors.
—IEEE Spectrum, 27 Aug. 2014
Yes, navigating stressful schedules and sweet treats can trigger maladaptive coping mechanisms—but just as concerning are the comments from family members about the food of the season and the bodies around the table.
—Ella Cerón, Allure, 6 Dec. 2024
Often seen as maladaptive, reflective thinking can drive deeper learning from past experiences and avoid future errors.
—Dave Winsborough, Forbes, 2 Dec. 2024
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Tomas Chamorro-Premuzic, Forbes, 19 Feb. 2025
In fact, doctors have effectively used manipulation of emotional memory in psychotherapy to treat maladaptive behaviors.
—IEEE Spectrum, 27 Aug. 2014
Yes, navigating stressful schedules and sweet treats can trigger maladaptive coping mechanisms—but just as concerning are the comments from family members about the food of the season and the bodies around the table.
—Ella Cerón, Allure, 6 Dec. 2024
Often seen as maladaptive, reflective thinking can drive deeper learning from past experiences and avoid future errors.
—Dave Winsborough, Forbes, 2 Dec. 2024
See All Example Sentences for maladaptive
Cite this Entry
“Maladaptive.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/maladaptive. Accessed 4 Mar. 2025.
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