Adaptive vs. Maladaptive

Of, pertaining to, characterized by or showing adaptation; making or made fit or suitable.

Capable of being adapted or of adapting; susceptible of or undergoing accordant change.

(psychology) Of a trait: that helps an individual to function well in society.

Suited, given, or tending, to adaptation; characterized by adaptation; capable of adapting.

having a capacity for adaptation;

Example: ‘the adaptive coloring of a chameleon’;

characterized by or given to adaptation

Example: ‘mutation is ultimately essential for adaptive evolution in all populations’;

Showing inadequate or faulty adaptation to a new situation.

showing faulty adaptation