Reactive Attachment Disorder (RAD)

Reactive attachment disorder (RAD) is a condition found in children who have received grossly negligent care and do not form a healthy emotional attachment with their primary caregivers -- usually their mothers -- before age 5.

Symptoms

RAD can affect every aspect of a child's life and development. There are two types of RAD: inhibited and disinhibited.

• Common Symptoms of Inhibited RAD Include:
  • Detached
  • Unresponsive or resistant to comforting
  • Excessively inhibited (holding back emotions)
  • Withdrawn or a mixture of approach and avoidance
  • Common Symptoms With Disinhibited RAD Include:

• Indiscriminate sociability
  • Inappropriately familiar or selective in the choice of attachment figures

Causes

RAD occurs when attachment between a young child and his or her primary caregiver does not occur or is interrupted due to grossly negligent care. This can occur for many reasons, including:

• Persistent disregard of the child's emotional needs for comfort, stimulation, and affection
• Persistent disregard of the child's basic physical needs
• Repeated changes of primary caregivers that prevent formation of stable attachments (for example, frequent changes in foster care)

Home remedies

Treatment of RAD has two important goals. The first is to ensure that the child is in a safe environment. This is especially important in cases where the child has been abused or neglected. The second goal is to help the child develop a healthy relationship with an appropriate caregiver.

Treatment for RAD often focuses on the caregiver. Counseling may be used to address the issues that are affecting the caregiver's relationship with and behavior toward the child. Teaching parenting skills also can help improve the relationship with the child and help develop attachment. Treatment may also include play therapy. This technique allows the child and the caregiver to express their thoughts, fears, and needs in the safe context of play.

There is no medication to treat RAD itself. However, the doctor may use medication if the child has severe symptoms, such as explosive anger or problems sleeping.

The use of so-called holding therapies and/or "rebirthing" techniques is controversial. There is no scientific evidence to support the effectiveness of such interventions.

Medical Disclaimer

This information is not meant to be substituted for medical advice. Always consult a medical professional regarding any medical problems and before undertaking any treatment or dietary changes.