Personal and social maladjustment

Dysfunctional social behaviour

Nature

A condition or process involving the inability or unwillingness to conform to prevailing standards of an external system or of one's own.

Incidence

A 2022 report by the World Health Organization estimated that approximately 15% of adolescents worldwide experience significant personal and social maladjustment, manifesting as difficulties in forming relationships, adapting to social norms, or managing emotional challenges. Rates are notably higher in urbanized regions and among marginalized populations, with studies in the United States and Europe indicating a steady increase over the past decade.
In 2019, a study conducted in Tokyo, Japan, documented a sharp rise in "hikikomori" cases—individuals, often young adults, withdrawing from social life and confining themselves at home—highlighting a pronounced example of personal and social maladjustment in a modern urban context.

Claim

Personal and social maladjustment is a critical issue that undermines individual well-being and societal harmony. It manifests in various forms, from mental health struggles to social isolation, affecting not only the individuals involved but also their families and communities. Ignoring this problem perpetuates cycles of dysfunction, leading to increased crime, poverty, and mental health crises. We must prioritize understanding and addressing maladjustment to foster healthier, more resilient societies where everyone can thrive.

Counter-claim

Personal and social maladjustment is often overstated as a significant issue. Many individuals face challenges in adapting to societal norms, yet these experiences can foster resilience and personal growth. Rather than viewing maladjustment as a problem, we should recognize it as a natural part of human diversity. Emphasizing conformity stifles individuality and creativity. Society should celebrate differences instead of pathologizing them, allowing people to thrive in their unique ways without undue concern for fitting in.