Bonadaptation refers to which of the following?

• A. The negative response to stress that impairs functioning
• B. The positive growth and changes individuals gain through dealing effectively with stressors and crisis events
• C. A type of psychological trauma
• D. A coping mechanism that eliminates stress

Answer: (B)

Bonadaptation refers to positive growth and changes that people experience after they cope effectively with stressors or crises. It’s about not just getting through adversity, but emerging with enhanced functioning, new skills, or a shifted perspective that strengthens future resilience. This fits the idea of thriving after a difficult event, rather than merely returning to the previous state.

This isn’t about a negative response that impairs functioning—that would be maladaptation. It isn’t a type of psychological trauma, which is the distressing experience itself. And it isn’t a coping mechanism that eliminates stress; coping aims to manage or reduce distress, while bonadaptation captures the subsequent positive transformation that can come from successfully navigating the stress. For example, someone who faces a major setback might develop greater self-efficacy, stronger relationships, or new goals that improve overall functioning.