AP PSYCHOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -People with anxiety disorders are likely to display maladaptive behaviors, particularly avoidance, in order to cope with their discomfort. Avoidance, specifically socially withdrawal, is one of the most common behaviors among people with social anxiety disorder (SAD).

Detailed explanation-2: -Definition. Maladaptive behavior is defined as behavior that interferes with an individual’s activities of daily living or ability to adjust to and participate in particular settings.

Detailed explanation-3: -Research indicates that avoidance is a maladaptive behavioral response to fear and anxiety. The pattern of avoidance, while providing temporary relief, can increase anxiety.

Detailed explanation-4: -Normal anxiety is considered an adaptive response to the possible presence of danger, but is susceptible to dysregulation. Anxiety disorders are prevalent at high frequency in contemporary human societies, yet impose substantial disability upon their sufferers.