Dysfunction
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Dysfunction
Dysfunction describes the development of maladaptive attitudes, behaviours, and relational patterns that arise in response to chronic unmet needs and unresolved distress. Examples include compulsive overwork, avoidance, addiction, aggression, and exploitative interactions. These patterns serve as survival strategies but ultimately exacerbate harm, reinforce unhealthy cycles, and further disconnect the individual from needs, others, alignment, and authentic Self‑expression.
Concept Map
Key Terms
Lightning Path Human Development Framework >
- LP Connection Framework
- LP Creative Framework
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- LP Psychological Framework
- Pathfinder Educational Model
- Allegory of the Bucket
- Ego Mode
- Focus Point
- Healing and Connection Journal
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- Prism Metaphor
- Self Assessment
- The Work
- Toxic Socialization
The 5Ds
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Syncretic Terms
Related LP Terms
Non-LP Related Terms
Notes
Dysfunction arises as a compensatory strategy for surviving in a toxic environment. When connection is severed and potential is diminished, people develop behaviours, habits, and attitudes that help them cope — but these strategies are maladaptive in the long term.
Examples include overworking to avoid emotion, compulsive consumption to fill inner voids, perfectionism as a shield against rejection, or emotional repression in relationships. These dysfunctions can appear normal or even virtuous in dominant culture, but they perpetuate disconnection and block healing.
Dysfunction is often reinforced by systems of ideology. For instance, capitalist societies reward workaholism, emotional suppression, and competitive individualism, all of which are adaptive responses to trauma but ultimately self-defeating. Dysfunction becomes normalized and even valorized.
Healing dysfunction requires more than self-awareness. It requires the active creation of safe, nurturing environments, new models of behaviour, and supportive relationships that enable individuals to rewire their nervous systems and behavioral patterns.
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