What You Need To Know About Maladaptive Behaviour
Maladaptive Behaviour: Definition and relevance for you
Maladaptive behaviour (MB) is unhelpful or harmful acts that damage well-being. In scientific terms, MB impairs a person's ability to function well in their environment. By contrast, adaptive behaviours (e.g., social contact, exercise) have a positive influence on well-being and functioning.
MB is often associated with both individual character (e.g., personality disorders) and the development of psychological problems. Difficulties regarding the latter include both well-being and mental health difficulties (e.g., problems trying to regulate emotions, anxiety disorders).
This article provides essential information to help you understand the important concept of MB.
Types of MB
There are many types of maladaptive behaviours or 'maladaptive coping strategies'. Here are some examples:
Substance abuse: Disruptive use of drugs or alcohol (e.g., creates problems at work).
Compulsive gambling: Betting excessively (or beyond financial means), leading to financial and other problems.
Self-harm: Deliberately injuring oneself as a response or coping strategy for psychological distress.
Avoidance: Refusing to confront or deal with situations or problems, which can lead to bigger issues.
Harmful eating behaviours (e.g., eating disorders): Maladaptive behaviours surrounding food and eating (e.g., forced vomiting) to manage concerns about body image.
Aggression: Using aggression or violence to control others, leading to relationship and/or legal problems.
Procrastination: Putting off important tasks until the last minute, leading to poor performance and increased stress.
Social withdrawal: avoiding people to manage low mood, anxiety, or some other issue (e.g., social skills problems).
Maladaptive daydreaming: A concept where people are thought to daydream in a problematic way (e.g., spend long periods on this activity).
The topic of MB is not without controversy. For example, some people see behaviours characteristic of neurodiversity (eg., Autism Spectrum Disorder) as maladaptive. However, many associated with this community fiercely object to the negative labelling of their behaviours.
What are the signs?
Indicators of MB can vary depending on the circumstances. But some general signs may include:
Interference with daily functioning: MB often interferes with an ability to perform everyday tasks and fulfil responsibilities.
Continuing with MB despite negative consequences (e.g., financial problems, health issues, or damaged relationships).
Difficulty stopping the behaviour: Individuals engaging in MB often feel unable to stop, despite a desire to do so.
Strong focus on the behaviour: MB may consume thoughts, making it difficult to focus on other things.
Emotional distress: MB can cause additional problems that lead to distress due to mounting negative consequences.
Social withdrawal or isolation: MB can lead to social withdrawal or isolation, as an individual may feel ashamed or embarrassed.
Reduction in usual activities: MB may replace other behaviour, leading to a decrease in previous activities.
Denial or lack of insight: Individuals engaging in MB may deny or minimise their negative impacts.
What causes this behaviour?
Why do people engage in MB? Here are some possible explanations.
Negative reinforcement
One of the most significant causes of MB is negative reinforcement. This outcome occurs when an individual engages in a behaviour to avoid or escape from a negative consequence. This strategy only provides short-term benefits.
For example, individuals who feel anxious in social situations may avoid socialising to alleviate their discomfort. However, this avoidance can ultimately lead to social isolation and exacerbate their anxiety over time.
Cognitive distortions
Another factor is cognitive distortions. These are incorrect assumptions or interpretations about the world. For instance, an individual may overestimate danger in a given situation. This misperception may lead to engagement in MB to avoid a perceived threat.
This type of thinking can lead to an individual using MB to cope with difficult emotions or situations.
Problem solving
MB can result from a lack of problem solving skills or difficulty managing emotions. Individuals may resort to MB as a way to cope with or “solve” a problem. Even if MB is not the most effective method, they may still use it.
Early experiences
Childhood experiences, including trauma and neglect, can contribute to the development of MB. An individual who experienced abuse as a child may struggle with relationships. They may engage in destructive behaviour as a coping mechanism.
What's the difference?
Distinguishing between MB and other forms of behaviour can be challenging. There can be a fine line between adaptive and maladaptive behaviour. However, here are some ways to tell the difference:
Frequency and intensity: MB tends to occur frequently and with greater intensity than other behaviour. MB may also persist even when there are negative consequences.
Interference with daily functioning: MB interferes with functioning in daily life, whereas other behaviours do not. For example, spending many hours daily on social media and neglecting your job would be considered MB. Checking social media for a few minutes daily is unlikely to cause major issues.
Context: Behavior can be considered maladaptive in one context but not problematic in another. A child throwing tantrums when they don't get their way may be considered normal behaviour for a young child. However, it may be considered maladaptive when it continues into adolescence.
Impact on others: MB can have a negative impact on others, such as family members, friends, or coworkers. Other behaviour does not necessarily have a negative impact on others.
It is important to note that the distinction between maladaptive and other forms of behaviour is not always clear-cut. It may be helpful to seek the advice of a mental health professional to work through this uncertainty.
Summary
MB is a complex phenomenon influenced by a range of factors, including negative reinforcement, cognitive distortion, and childhood experiences. This behaviour impairs an ability to function effectively in daily life.
MB is often a cause or consequence of serious psychological issues. However, we can treat MB. There are effective interventions, including Cognitive Behavior Therapy and Mindfulness. Evidence based treatments can help individuals overcome MB and improve their overall well-being.
We are Coaching & Clinical Psychologists with extensive experience helping people conquer a range of wellbeing and performance issues at home and in the workplace. We have vast experience tackling maladaptive behaviours of various forms. Read more about our work, watch practical skills videos or browse other articles. Get in touch anytime.
