Definitions
- Describing a system, organization, or family that is not working properly or effectively. - Referring to a person or relationship that is unhealthy or not functioning well. - Talking about a behavior or habit that is problematic or disruptive.
- Describing a physical or mental condition that is diminished or weakened. - Referring to a function or ability that is reduced or limited. - Talking about a substance or activity that negatively affects one's abilities or judgment.
List of Similarities
- 1Both words describe something that is not functioning properly.
- 2Both words can refer to a physical or mental condition.
- 3Both words can be used to describe a negative impact on abilities or performance.
What is the difference?
- 1Scope: Dysfunctional refers to a broader range of issues, including systems, organizations, families, and relationships, while impaired is more specific to physical or mental conditions or abilities.
- 2Cause: Dysfunctional implies a problem with the structure or function of a system or relationship, while impaired suggests a reduction or limitation in abilities or functions due to a specific cause, such as injury, illness, or substance use.
- 3Severity: Impaired suggests a more severe or significant reduction in abilities or functions than dysfunctional, which can refer to a range of issues from minor to major.
- 4Context: Dysfunctional is more commonly used in social and psychological contexts, while impaired is often used in medical and legal contexts.
- 5Connotation: Dysfunctional has a negative connotation and implies dysfunction or dysfunctionality, while impaired is more neutral and describes a reduction or limitation in abilities or functions.
Remember this!
Dysfunctional and impaired are both words that describe something that is not functioning properly. However, dysfunctional is a broader term that can refer to a range of issues related to systems, organizations, families, and relationships, while impaired is more specific to physical or mental conditions or abilities. Additionally, dysfunctional implies a problem with the structure or function of a system or relationship, while impaired suggests a reduction or limitation in abilities or functions due to a specific cause.
