The article examines the dysfunctions of political system as factors of political instability. It is stated that growth of dysfunctional phenomena in the political system results in its instability. Based on the structural and functional analysis, the main functions of a political system of a democratic type are distinguished: the function of distributing resources in society, the function of political governance, the functions of political representation and political participation. The article describes the mechanism of transforming a function of a political system into dysfunction, which is understood as a state when a structural element of the system ceases to perform actions within its original purpose, which is manifested in degeneration of the function, its symbolization and personalization. The task of the political system is to promptly respond to dysfunctions, providing the political system with dynamic stability. The authors conclude that democratic political systems in general are able to respond to external influences, providing a certain level of resource allocation, demonstrate the ability to manage political processes and provide access to politics for various social groups, including organizing channels of political participation. Political systems of the transitional (hybrid) type are characterized by other features, they are more focused on organizing and ensuring the survival of the political elite, demonstrate significant dysfunctions of distribution, management, political representation and political participation.
