The Maladaptive Pattern meme is a popular format used to illustrate the cyclical nature of unhealthy coping mechanisms and self-defeating behaviors. Often taking the form of a flow chart or a person choosing a specific path, the meme highlights the irony of choosing a short-term relief that leads to long-term distress. It gained significant traction within mental health communities and relatable social media circles, where users poke fun at their own tendencies to procrastinate, overthink, or avoid problems. By labeling the steps of a self-destructive cycle, creators find a way to externalize and laugh at behaviors that feel universal yet frustrating, making it a staple for anyone who has ever used avoidance as a primary strategy.