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adaptive vs. maladaptive

[uh-dap-tiv] / əˈdæp tɪv /

adjective

  1. serving or able to adapt; showing or contributing to adaptation.

    the adaptive coloring of a chameleon.

[mal-uh-dap-tiv] / ˌmæl əˈdæp tɪv /

adjective

  1. of, relating to, or characterized by maladaptation or incomplete, inadequate, or faulty adaptation.

    The maladaptive behavior of isolated children was difficult to change.