Dysfunctional
(adjective)
- Describing a system, process, or relationship that does not work effectively or efficiently.
- Describing a family or social unit whose members have difficulty communicating and cooperating with each other.
Origin:
Late 19th century: from dys- (expressing negation) + functional.
Examples:
- The dysfunctional relationship between the employees and the management was affecting the company's performance.
- The dysfunctional economy was in a state of permanent recession.
- The dysfunctional family struggled to maintain healthy relationships.
- The dysfunctional political system was unable to address the needs of its citizens.
- The school was facing numerous problems, including a dysfunctional administrative structure.