Reactive Attachment Disorder

Paper Summary:

This study explores the psychological disorder known as reactive attachment disorder. This problem can occur when early childhood attachment patterns are chronically interrupted. The author describes factors that may contribute to this problem and the actual symptoms of the disorder. Finally, the author states that this study was initiated in order to develop a best practices handbook to increase the awareness of this condition and to provide a helpful approach for therapists when working with children who are or have experienced attachment issues. Includes charts and tables.

Table of Contents:
Introduction
Statement of the Problem
Purpose of the Study
Significance of the Study
Limitations of the Project
Definition of Terms
Organization of the Project
Chapter Two
Review of the Research on Issues that are Relevant to the Study
Introduction
Attachment Theory and RAD
Diagnosis of Reactive Attachment Disorder
Implications of Reactive Attachment Disorder
Identifying Effective Treatment for Reactive Attachment Disorder
Synthesis of the Review of the Research
Chapter 3: Methodology
Introduction
CHAPTER 4: Product
CHAPTER 5: Conclusion

From the Paper:

" When early childhood attachment patterns are chronically interrupted, children may develop reactive attachment disorder; unfortunately, RAD remains a widely misunderstood and under-diagnosed disorder (Doggett, Renfro-Michel & Sheperis, 2003). While studies have shown time and again that some children who experience early disruptions in the attachment process are able to cope with such events, others appear to be unable to recover, such as with children suffering from reactive attachment disorder. The symptoms of RAD vary from child to child, of course, but studies have found that a lack of ability to give and receive affection, cruelty to others especially pets, abnormalities in eye contact and speech patterns, lying and stealing, lack of long-term friends, and extreme control problems are common (Flanagan, 1999). Complicating the problem for clinicians are the number of behavioral disorders that can manifest during these early years that may mimic the symptoms of reactive attachment disorder, and the diagnosis of RAD is made only when there are no other likely causes for the lack of social responsiveness, such as mental retardation (Flanagan, 1999)."

Sample of Sources Used:

• Allen, J. P., Hauser, S. T., & Borman-Spurrell, E. (1996). Attachment theory as a framework for understanding sequelae of severe adolescent psychopathology: An 11-year follow-up study. Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology, 64, 254-263.
• American Psychiatric Association. (2000). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (4th ed. Text rev.). Washington, DC: Author.
• Beitchman, J. H., Zucker, K. J., Hood, J. E., DaCosta, G. A., & Akman, D. (1991). A review of the short-term effects of child sexual abuse. Child Abuse & Neglect, 15, 537-56.
• Beidel, D. C., Turner, S. M., & Morris, T.L., (1999). Psychopathology of childhood social phobia. Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, 38, 643-50.
• Benda, B. B. (2001). Predictors of rehospitalization of military veterans who abuse substances. Social Work Research, 25(4), 199.

More papers on Reactive Attachment Disorder:

• Analytical Essay # 143968 : "Reactive Attachment Disorder"
• Term Paper # 119541 : "Reactive Attachment Disorder"
• Term Paper # 106695 : "Reactive Attachment Disorder (RAD)"

APA Citation:

MLA Citation: