To fail to adapt or to adapt poorly to a new situation, environment, or set of circumstances. This can manifest in behavioral, emotional, or psychological difficulties, often resulting in stress, anxiety, or other negative consequences. The process of maladjustment involves an inability to effectively cope with the demands and challenges presented, leading to a state of disharmony or imbalance. It can be applied to individuals, groups, or even systems, and the severity of maladjustment can vary significantly. Factors contributing to maladjustment often include environmental stressors, personality traits, and pre-existing conditions. It implies a lack of successful integration or a struggle to find a comfortable and functional relationship with one's surroundings.
Maladjust meaning with examples
- After the sudden move to a new city, Sarah began to maladjust to her new school, exhibiting signs of anxiety and social withdrawal. She struggled to make friends and felt overwhelmed by the unfamiliar environment. Her parents sought counseling to help her cope with the transition, hoping she'd find ways to acclimate. Ultimately, the counselor worked with her to overcome the initial fear and allow her to acclimate. Eventually, she started enjoying the new environment.
- The new employee seemed to maladjust to the rigid corporate culture, often clashing with the established procedures and lacking interest in team building exercises. He struggled to meet deadlines and misinterpreted instructions, leading to conflicts with his colleagues. He found the high-pressure atmosphere draining and missed the collaborative style of his previous workplace. This maladjustment eventually lead to performance review discussions. His supervisors hoped he would try to adapt.
- The therapy group was designed to help soldiers who had maladjusted to civilian life. They had trouble with their new routines, social situations and relationships. Many struggled with PTSD symptoms and found it difficult to reintegrate. Therapy sessions focused on processing their experiences and developing coping mechanisms, aiming to reduce their feelings of isolation and develop healthier responses. The support group allowed them to create long lasting connections.
- As the economy worsened, some families maladjusted to the reduced income and tighter budgets. The father was unable to maintain the standard of living they had been accustomed to, leading to increased stress and arguments. Difficulties arose in managing expenses, leading to sacrifices and altered lifestyles. Financial pressures also began to negatively influence marital and family dynamics. Economic therapy allowed for better budgeting strategies and conflict resolutions.
- The software program seemed to maladjust to the new operating system, constantly crashing and experiencing compatibility issues. The developers worked tirelessly to resolve the conflicts, recognizing that the program could no longer function. Users reported many frustrations, expressing a desire to find an alternate program. The program's inability to adapt required a system upgrade. Ultimately the new system allowed for an upgrade that fully functioned.