What are the Signs of Reactive Attachment Disorder?

Signs of Reactive Attachment Disorder in Infants & Toddlers

Reactive Attachment Disorder (RAD) refers to a condition which occurs in children who have not formed a healthy emotional attachment with their primary carers. It happens generally due to early childhood neglect, abuse, sudden separation or even frequent changes in carers. This kind of attachment disruption can lead to challenges in forming relationships and managing emotions.

Early Signs of RAD in Infants and Toddlers

It is important to recognise the early signs of RAD in infants and toddlers. This is important for a timely intervention. At such a young age, the symptoms often involve unusual emotional responses and a lack of typical social behaviours. Here is a list of some of the most common signs to watch out for:

• Lack of Eye Contact : Infants who have RAD may avoid making eye contact with carers, even during soothing or feeding.
• Limited Emotional Expression : These children do not laugh, smile or show typical signs of joy when interacting with familiar adults.
• Failure to Seek Comfort : When upset, infants may not reach out to their carers for comfort or support and may even reject attempts to be soothed.
• Indifference to Carer’s Presence : A child with RAD may not react when a carer leaves the room or returns. They show little to no emotional concern or connection.
• Disinterest in Social Interaction : Children and toddlers with RAD may seem withdrawn or detached, showing little to no curiosity about people and their surroundings.
• Excessive Irritability : Infants might cry frequently, be difficult to calm or react too strongly to minor changes in their environment.
• Failure to Show Preference for Familiar People : Unlike developing children, they may not differentiate between carers and strangers, displaying no clear attachment or preference.

Cognitive and Developmental Delays

RAD can also have an impact on cognitive development. Affected children may show delayed speech and language skills, trouble focusing and difficulties with academic performance. Their social development may lag behind their peers. It can result in isolation or rejection from peer groups.

How to Prevent Reactive Attachment Disorder?

Here are a few preventive measures that parents and carers can take for a child to help them build a strong attachment bond:

• Spending Quality Time with Your Child: Interacting actively with a child can make them feel they are cared for. If they feel heard and supported, then chances are they might be willing to be more open.
• Offering a Child with Nurture: Having nurturing interactions with a child can comfort and soothe them.
• Understanding Both Verbal and Non-Verbal Cues: Infants initially communicate via crying and cooing. It is important to understand the meaning of these non-verbal cues. It can make them feel heard and strengthen their emotional bond.

When to Seek Help?

Parents, carers and educators need to consider a professional evaluation if the child consistently shows these symptoms. It is even more so if there is a present history of early trauma, neglect or prolonged institutional care. Diagnosis of RAD requires a comprehensive psychological assessment, as many of its symptoms overlap with other disorders like attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder.

Reactive Attachment Disorder is a complex condition that has a profound impact on a child’s emotional and social development. The earlier that the signs get recognised and addressed, the better the outcomes are for the child.