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Functional Maladaptation

Meaning

Functional Maladaptation refers to a pathological state where a physiological system, having initially adapted to a chronic stressor, ultimately develops a persistent dysregulation that impairs its normal, healthy function. In endocrinology, this often describes the shift from a transient, adaptive stress response to a sustained, dysfunctional pattern, such as chronic HPA axis over-activation. This state is characterized by an altered set point and reduced dynamic range, meaning the system is no longer capable of mounting an appropriate, precise response to new challenges. It signifies the point where adaptation becomes a disease mechanism.