What Is Reactive Attachment Disorder?

Posted on: 5 December 2018

Children attend counseling and therapy for a variety of reasons. One rare but important condition children may contend with is reactive attachment disorder. Children struggling with this problem benefit from regular therapy sessions. Read on to learn more about this mental health condition and how child therapy can help kids avoid the long-term effects of reactive attachment disorder as they grow older.

What Is Reactive Attachment Disorder?

Reactive attachment disorder is a condition in which a child or baby fails to build healthy attachments to parents and caregivers. In many of these cases, the child's basic needs, including nurturing, are not met. The child may struggle to develop positive, loving relationships.

The prognosis for reactive attachment disorder is good when children receive effective treatment for the condition. Over time, many children facing this issue go on to experience healthy, loving relationships.

Reactive attachment disorder often develops in infancy. As children grow older, the possibility they will experience this issue grows smaller. Professionals are unsure if the condition may develop in older children who have already had attachments to caregivers.

What Are Symptoms of Reactive Attachment Disorder?

One of the most common symptoms of reactive attachment disorder is unexplained sadness, irritability, or withdrawal. Children with this condition often do not want to engage with others. They may opt to isolate themselves, and they may not seek comfort from other adults. Additionally, they may not respond to those who offer comfort. They may have never learned how to provide or receive comfort. In fact, some people with this condition have difficulty smiling.

Additionally, children with this condition may watch others engage in social interaction without engaging themselves. They may struggle to interact with others. In very young children, they may not show an interest in playing games involving interaction with other adults.

How Is Reactive Attachment Disorder Treated?

Reactive attachment disorder is treatable. Psychological counseling is one of the best ways to pursue treatment. A psychotherapist with experience in reactive attachment disorder will understand the best form of treatment for your loved one.

Parents and caregivers can also obtain counseling and educate themselves about building better bonds with their children. Caregivers can learn to have better interactions with their child as well as to provide a nurturing environment.

Ultimately, reactive attachment disorder is a significant concern. But this does not mean positive recovery is not possible. Seek out assistance today to learn more about the treatments available for your family.

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