maladjusted

Maladjusted is an adjective used to describe someone who has difficulty adapting to social norms, environments, or expectations to the extent that functioning or well-being is impeded. It is commonly applied to children and adolescents in educational or clinical contexts, but can describe adults as well. The term is descriptive rather than diagnostic, indicating a degree of inappropriate or ineffective adjustment without specifying a discrete disorder.

In psychology and psychiatry, maladjustment is thought to arise from a combination of cognitive, emotional, behavioral, and environmental factors, including developmental issues, trauma, family dynamics, peer relationships, and socio-economic stress. Manifestations may include persistent behavior problems, poor academic or occupational performance, social withdrawal or aggression, mood disturbances, or frequent conflict with authority figures. The trajectory can be temporary—related to a transition or acute stress—or chronic.

The term is related to, but distinct from, maladaptive behavior. Maladjustment concerns overall adjustment and functioning, whereas maladaptive behavior specifically describes actions that reduce adjustment. In modern clinical practice, maladjustment is less likely to be used as a formal diagnosis; instead, clinicians describe specific impairments or use established disorders or criteria for assessment.

Treatment and prognosis depend on underlying causes and severity, and typically involve psychological therapies, family or school-based interventions, and supports to improve coping skills and daily functioning. Because the label can stigmatize individuals, contemporary practice emphasizes functional assessment and person-centered intervention rather than labeling.