With respect to the three characteristics of abnormal behavior, when a behavior interferes with a person's ability to function effectively in the world, it is considered
a. unique
b. dependent
c. maladaptive
d. repetitive

When a behavior interferes with a person's ability to function effectively in the world, it is considered C. maladaptive.

Explanation:

Maladaptive behavior is a type of behavior people use to reduce anxiety in a particular situation. However, it does more harm than good, and results in one's inability to adjust to a situation.

For example, imagine that your neighbor has been unemployed for a long period of time. He can no longer afford summer vacations and does not have enough money to send his children to private schools. Your neighbor is stressed out, and as a result, he starts drinking alcohol to feel better. He is also hostile towards his family. The techniques that your neighbor uses to cope with stress are maladaptive, as they do not really make his situation any better.

A maladaptive behavior is only short-term anxiety solution because it prevents people from dealing with the challenges of life in a right way.