Based on the adaptive cycle model,the evolvement mechanism of social-ecological system was explored in a case study of Wangdong Village,Changwu County,Shaanxi Province.The dynamic adaptive cycles of Wangdong Village were identified by integrating key variables from social,economic,and ecological aspects.The social-ecological system of Wangdong Village has experienced a total adaptive cycle(1949—1961),then fell into a poverty trap(1961—1980),and now is in the exploitation phase of a new adaptive cycle(1980-).The institutional changes,especially the adjustment of land use policies,are the main driving force for the adaptive cycles.The technical innovation maintains the current system in the exploitation phase.Climate change such as drought is a strong disturbance to the social-ecological system and may lead the system into a releasing phase.