Which term describes the mismatch between behavior and social standards that affects functioning?

The term that best describes the mismatch between behavior and social standards that affects functioning is dysfunction. In the context of psychopathology, dysfunction refers to when an individual's behavior interferes with their ability to function effectively in everyday life. This can manifest in various areas such as social interactions, occupational performance, or personal relationships. When an individual’s behavior deviates significantly from societal norms and it hampers their ability to participate fully in life, it is a clear indication of dysfunction.

While deviance signifies behaviors that differ from societal norms, it does not inherently imply that there is an impact on functioning. Abnormality generally refers to behaviors or thoughts that are atypical, but again, it does not directly address the functional impairment. Disassociation, in contrast, specifically relates to a disconnection between thoughts, identity, consciousness, and memory, which is not primarily focused on the mismatch with social standards in a functional context. Thus, dysfunction accurately captures the essence of the mismatch between behavior and social standards that has tangible effects on a person's ability to function.