A deeper understanding of the Reactive Attachment Disorder, or RAD, can be found in this web address: https://childdevelopmentinfo.com/child-psychology/reactive-attachment-disorder/. This website was developed by Child Development Institute in 1999. It provides information to parents about child psychology and development. It also builds powerful connections among parents, professional experts, and other relevant websites (Fernandez).
The website is an excellent source of information because it specifically talks about child development. It includes blogs, articles, parenting advice, and other useful resources. It covers helpful information about common childhood disorders, specifically the Reactive Attachment Disorder. For inquiries, the website provides a section where you can request for more information.
The article about Reactive Attachment Disorder is such a reliable source as it was written by a child psychiatrist, named Dr. Gail Fernandez who has great expertise about the subject. She provided a background of the disorder, a concise pattern of development, a clear explanation of how children with RAD become impaired adults, and possible solution to their issues.
In this website, Dr. Gail Fernandez, described Reactive Attachment Disorder as an “uncommon but serious childhood disorder”. Having basic knowledge of Attachment Theory will help us understand RAD more easily. Based on studies, the way a child was nurtured greatly affects his health and behavior as an adult. In addition to basic needs, the emotional needs of a newborn infant must be met as well (Fernandez).
There are two types of RAD: inhibited and disinhibited. The inhibited type is one that has a withdrawn behavior and does not get attached with caregivers or friends. The disinhibited type is one that is too friendly and exhibits poor judgment. Based on studies, both types are linked to functional impairments. Furthermore, some data explain that children may show characteristics of both types instead of just one of the two categories (Fernandez).
The attachment of an individual to other people is developed through a nurturing relationship from a caregiver. The consistent care provided by the caregiver builds trust between him and the child (Fernandez).
Reactive Attachment Disorder results from lack of nurturing and trustworthy care during childhood. This eventually leads to disruptive condition in the early relationships of a child. Although RAD does not really have an exact cause, most children with this disorder have experienced physical or emotional abuse, inadequate care in a certain institution, and traumatic losses (Fernandez).
Children with RAD are usually skeptical of their caregivers which resulted from undesirable experiences. Thus, these children often show negative behaviors. Affection makes them feel uncomfortable. They believe in doing whatever they want in order to survive. They even become aggressive and violent. Children with RAD, therefore, show serious behavioral issues. They are also difficult to deal with (Fernandez).
There is no medication or medical treatment for RAD. However, there are certain therapies available such as behavioral therapy, psychotherapy, and family therapy. Treatment through a structured living environment could be done as well (Fernandez).
RAD is a serious childhood disorder that resulted from neglect and abuse. The emotional and behavioral problems of this disorder can be disturbing. Children with RAD often become impaired adults. Further studies might be needed in order to resolve and address this disorder more effectively (Fernandez).
Works Cited
Gail Fernandez, MD. Child Development Institute. 1999-2015. 21 June 2016. <https://childdevelopmentinfo.com/child-psychology/reactive-attachment-disorder/>.
