Reactive Attachment Disorder (RAD) is a serious condition that affects children, often due to severe neglect or inconsistent caregiving. According to the DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders) by the American Psychiatric Association, RAD is classified as a stressor- and trauma-related disorder. This guide explores the disorder, its causes, symptoms, and other key details.
Reactive Attachment Disorder, or RAD, refers to a condition where an infant or young child does not form healthy bonds with their parents or primary carers. It often happens due to emotional neglect or facing abuse at a young age. The condition of RAD makes children have trouble managing their emotions. Since it impairs normal emotional development, RAD is taken seriously by clinicians and child development experts.
While there is no one exact cause for children getting diagnosed with RAD, there are several factors that can contribute to it. Here are a few of them:
There has been very little research on the symptoms of this condition beyond early childhood. It also remains unclear whether RAD affects children who are older than 5 years. However, these are the most apparent symptoms that can be seen in children with that condition:
There is a major risk of developing a reactive attachment disorder from facing emotional neglect from primary carers or parents. Here are a few common risk factors for developing RAD:
While there are no preventive measures that work with certainty, there are some methods that work to avoid RAD to an extent. Here are a few parenting suggestions that can help prevent the child from getting RAD:
Reactive Attachment Disorder is indeed a recognised mental illness that stems from early relational trauma. While it can deeply affect emotional development, early detection, stable caregiving, and therapeutic intervention can make a significant difference. Understanding RAD is essential for promoting healthier childhood experiences and long-term psychological well-being.