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Reactive Attachment Disorder (RAD)

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Reactive Attachment Disorder (RAD)
Reactive Attachment Disorder

Fahimullah Bokhari
Brain & Behavior

Reactive attachment disorder (RAD) is a condition found in children who have trouble developing healthy lasting relationships. On a psychologically perspective, attachment occurs when the child is given the fundamental needs of comfort, attention, and nurturing. The disorder stems from not having received love and care from their parents or caregivers before the age of 5. The child’s damaged past causes the inability to connect and to trust others.
Causes
An infant can develop RAD when the basic needs of food, safety, and emotional stimulation are compromised due to negligent parents. Reactive attachment disorder can be caused when there is a lack of parenting skills
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Reactive attachment disorder diagnosis involves a psychiatric assessment and a physical exam to properly identify the best course of action. Doctors may request extra test such brain imaging exams (i.e. MRI or PET SCAN) to understand the neurological aspect of the disorder. The child will be referred to a psychiatrist or psychologist who specializes with children who have mental illnesses for further care.

Treatment
Treatment for the RAD is requires strong network between the child, parents, and medical professionals. The specialist will try to strengthen the bond between the patient and his or her caregivers. To insure positive outcomes for the treatment the child should be in safe and secured living setting.

Treatment Focus:
• Counseling
• Promoting open dialogue
• Parenting
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The child develops a sense of emotions, intentions, and self-awareness.
Child Development (Year 3)
The synaptic density is fully established in the prefrontal cortex. The child is able to interpret past events and; the child has an understanding of cause and effect A child who was abandoned and has RAD might have trouble creating healthy relationships due to their past.

Attachment Theory
Attachment theory is an area of development psychology exploring the bond between different individuals. Attachment theory begins as early with the connection to our parents. Attachment between infant and parent influence how the child will interact with others when older. Children seek comfort when threatened or upset. The parent responds to the child’s need. If the balance is thrown off the child can have trouble establishing regular and romantic relationships. A strong emotional and physical attachment to one primary caregiver is important to child development.
Psychologists Contributions:
John Bowlby (February 26, 1907 – September 2, 1990)
• Originally developed the attachment theory
• Proximity of the parent allows the child to process security
• Children are dependent upon care and protection from

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