Symptoms of Reactive Attachment Disorder (as listed by Mayo Clinic)
"Reactive attachment disorder is broken into two types — inhibited and disinhibited. While some children have signs and symptoms of just one type, many children have both.
Inhibited type: In inhibited reactive attachment disorder, children shun relationships and attachments to virtually everyone. This may happen when a baby never has the chance to develop an attachment to any caregiver. Signs and symptoms of the inhibited type may include: Resisting affection from parents or caregivers Avoiding eye contact Appearing to seek contact but then turning away Difficulty being comforted Preferring to play alone Avoiding physical contact Failing to initiate contact with others Appearing to be on guard or wary Engaging in self-soothing behavior
Disinhibited type: In disinhibited reactive attachment disorder, children form inappropriate and shallow attachments to virtually everyone, including strangers. This may happen when a baby has multiple caregivers or frequent changes in caregivers. Signs and symptoms of the disinhibited type may include: Readily going to strangers, rather than showing stranger anxiety Seeking comfort from strangers Exaggerating needs for help doing tasks Inappropriately childish behavior Appearing anxious A word of caution: Not all experts agree on the signs and symptoms of reactive attachment disorder. Some attachment therapists use checklists with numerous nonspecific signs and symptoms that go well beyond what the American Psychiatric Association includes in its definition of the disorder. Be cautious when trying to interpret checklists that include such symptoms as lack of eye contact, rage, aggression, lying, stealing, hoarding food, an apparent lack of a conscience, nonstop chatter, and a desire to wield control. These nonspecific symptoms are difficult to apply to any one diagnosis."
My own two children present their cases of RAD very differently from one another. A professional diagnosis is necessary as other disorders share some of the symptoms. If you are frustrated because your child has worked with a variety of therapists and a variety of treatments with no change maybe you should have him/her checked for RAD with an experienced Attachment Therapist. There is help. You are not alone.
Disclaimer:
Reactive Attachment Disorder (RAD) is a profound disturbance. If you suspect your child may have RAD please seek the professional counsel of an attachment therapist. Above you will find links that will hopefully help you find an attachment therapist. This blog is just my thoughts and ideas as an adoptive mom. I do not know your child and cannot be responsible for results from trying any ideas you find on this blog.
Thanks for the encouragement! Leave your link so we can come read you!
Taz, youngest son, 14, healing from RAD, TAZ describes his movement. He is a very intelligent young man. He is a freshmen in high school. He has discovered the joy of music. He is loving freshmen choir.
Teddy Bear, son 17, with RAD, I used to have him nick named Bear, but have changed it to Teddy Bear as he has begun to heal. He is a Junior in high school. He is very artistic. He is really hoping to enlist in the army.
Fish, son, 17, who swims competitively, is also a junior in high school. He is looking at colleges and praying about becoming a pastor.
Dancer is youngest daughter, 20, who is a very good dancer, She is a Junior in college. She is majoring in sociolgy with an interest in geriatrics
Eagle, our oldest daughter, 24, has left the nest and is working out on her own as an office manager.
I'm a stay at home mom of 5. I have 2 adopted children with Reactive Attachment Disorder. My main interest in this blog is meeting other mom's who parent Reactive Attachment Disorder children and helping each other to take care of ourselves.
2 comments:
I love this and so did my kids!!
Thanks,
Mary in Texas
I'm smiling. Thanks
Post a Comment