[Maladaptation and the circumstances of its development].

In the submitted review the author discusses contemporary views on the maladaptation syndrome. He characterizes mental stress and conditions under which it develops and ways in which individuals can react, as well as differences in the reaction of children, adolescents and adults. The author characterizes maladaptation, explains causes of its development and manifestations in relation to age (child, adolescent, adult) and its possible sequelae. Finally the paper contains reflections on the possible prevention of influences which may lead to maladaptation behaviour.