Reactive attachment disorder (RAD) is a condition in which people have difficulty developing consistent emotional bonds with others. It can lead to problems with social interactions and relationships in adolescence and adulthood. Symptoms of RAD usually develop as a result of early trauma, such as neglect or abuse. People with RAD may also experience anxiety and depression.
RAD is more common in foster children and those who grow up in institutions, such as orphanages. It is difficult to know exactly how many children have RAD disorders because many of them do not receive treatment. However, if children are not treated, they may have ongoing difficulties in relationships and other areas of their life throughout the rest of their lives.
Children who have RAD often have trouble trusting adults and have problems with self-esteem. They may have anger management issues and trouble showing affection to those they care about. They may have trouble learning and have difficulty in school. In addition, they may have problems with family, friendships and romantic relationships.
While it is difficult to diagnose RAD in children, doctors can look for certain signs and symptoms that may indicate a child has RAD. They can do a physical exam and review the child’s medical history to see if there are any health problems that may be contributing to the behavior. In addition, doctors can ask the child and their caregivers about the child’s experiences, including any instances of abuse or neglect that may have occurred.
If the doctor believes a child has RAD, they will likely do a mental health assessment to determine if there are any underlying conditions that may be contributing to the problem. They will look for symptoms of other disorders that can be associated with RAD, such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, anxiety and depression. They will also assess the child’s emotional functioning and try to understand how their early life experiences have affected them.
As children get older, their RAD symptoms tend to take one of two patterns, inhibited or disinhibited. Inhibited RAD children have a persistent pattern of severe neglect in basic life needs, a failure to show interest in safe caregivers and minimal emotional and behavioral responses to safe caregivers. These children may also have a lack of understanding of risk and have little fear when approached by unfamiliar adults. They may also have difficulty expressing anger or experiencing guilt or remorse.
Disinhibited RAD children have a less structured approach to their relationships. They may seem very clingy and impulsive. They may be very active and physically aggressive, but they also have a tendency to hide their emotions behind a mask of humor and wit. They often have trouble understanding other people’s feelings and behave inappropriately with strangers. This type of RAD is more difficult to recognize because the child can appear very loving and kind to everyone but their family. They may also have a hard time accepting criticism and are easily upset by change in routine or expectations.