The term "maldevelopment" is an adjective used to describe a situation or condition where something fails to develop, grow, or progress in the way that it should. It can refer to physical, mental, emotional, or social development that has not occurred as expected or required. Maldevelopment may result from various factors such as genetic abnormalities, environmental influences, lack of proper nutrition, neglect, trauma, or other circumstances that hinder normal growth and development. In essence, maldevelopment implies a deviation from the normative trajectory of growth and progress in any given area.