There are situations where a short-term remedy actually perpetuates the underlying long term problem.
For example, drinking more coffee is a kind of false cure for a caffeine withdrawal headache.
Similarly, scratching at a rash can make it feel better in the moment, but often perpetuates the rash.
Is there an adjective or phrase for these activities that seem good, but are actually deceptive and counterproductive? (E.g. "Scratching an inflamed rash is an [something] activity.")
Best Answer
Counterproductive - Having the opposite of the desired effect.