MALADJUSTMENT
1. Meaning of Maladjustment
The
term ‘maladjustment’ literally means faulty or unsatisfactory
adjustment. In psychology, the term is used to mention the inability to adjust
to the demands of interpersonal relationships and the stresses of daily living
Maladjustment refers to the degree of disharmony between the person and his
environment. It indicates the failure of the individual to adjust to a
situation. Maladjustment always results from the frustration and conflicts
caused by the non-satisfaction of needs. When we are unable to provide situations
in the school which can enable the child to satisfy his needs, maladjustment takes
place.
2. Frustration and conflict
A.
Frustration: Frustration means emotional tension resulting from the blocking
of a desire. It is the condition of being thwarted in the satisfaction of a
motive. Frustration occurs when an individual’s goal-seeking activity is obstructed.
It results in mental tension. It is the condition in which failure dominates the
attempt. The intensity of frustration depends upon the significance of the goal
and the strength of the blockade.
B.
Conflict: Conflict is a state of tension brought by the presence of two or
more opposing desires in the individual. It arises as a result of interaction
between the individual and his environment. Conflicting situation creates
tension and feeling of restlessness in the mind. There are types of conflicts:
3. Causes of maladjustment
The following
are the main factors that are responsible for maladjustment of school children:
1. Physique
and appearance: The physique and appearance play an important role in the
social development of the child. Comments by others affect the behaviour of
ugly, weak, handicapped children.
2.
Poverty: Parents of the children from low socio-economic strata are not in a
position to satisfy the essential needs of their children. Continuous
frustration of needs leads to maladjusted behaviour.
3.
Broken home: Children from broken homes are found often more maladjusted and emotionally
disturbed than children from stable homes, because they do not get the affection,
love, sympathy and security.
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