What is a Maladaptive Behavior? ABA Terms Explained!

As a parent you will likely encounter the term maladaptive behavior at your next child's IEP meeting? If you are like most parents, you'll be a little unsure what it means but not want to speak up and ask. That's why we create this channel for you. You are your child's best advocate and information is power. We want you to have all the information you require to best help your child. In this week's short video we will teach you what the term "maladaptive behavior means."

Photo: Morguefile
Sound effect: Incomputek
Intro: Graeme Kan
Video Production: Highlander Productions

Disclaimer:

This video is intended for information purposes only. It is not intended to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The text, graphics, images, flash movies, and audio segments are not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

The information contained in this segment is generalized. It may not be applicable in every situation. Before applying specific interventions, consult a behaviorist. Any behavior intervention can result in an undesired change in behavior if not implemented correctly. No client relationship is established as a result of watching these videos. Jessica Leichtweisz and Hope Education cannot be held responsible for any misuse of the information contained in these videos.

[boydhooper]

With respect, that’s not a good definition of maladaptive behaviour. Fundamentally by definition, maladaptive behaviour is behaviour that has lost its adaptive functioning. It’s no longer serving a functionally adaptive purpose, and is effectively counter-productive to the individual or others.
To this end the opposite is adaptive behaviour that serves a functional purpose