Reactive attachment disorder (RAD) is a very serious issue for some children and infants. But could you identify if a child around you was at risk for this disorder? Here, we will tell you more about what RAD is. We will tell you what statistics tell us, as well as causes, symptoms, and more. We hope that by learning more about this disorder that you can identify and help those who may have already been diagnosed with it, if needed.
What Stats Show
1. Statistics show that children and infants who are neglected are at a higher risk for developing RAD.
2. Some studies suggest that 8 of 10 mistreated children are at risk.
3. In the future, about 10% of these children will not be able to overcome this issue to develop normal emotions.
4. With millions of cases of mistreatment being brought to the attention of authorities each year (and possibly millions more not being reported) a great number of children run the risk for RAD.
5. Some researchers, however, disagree that this is the case. Instead, they say that many of the current diagnoses of RAD may actually be mistaken. They recommend that some of them be evaluated if they do not fit the typical symptoms of the disorder.
What Is RAD?
RAD can be broken into two separate diseases. These are often known as reactive attachment disorder and social engagement disorder. In one case of RAD, children will try to receive affection and care from any adult, even those they do not know. In another case, children are not able to accept affection or care from anyone, even loved ones, when they are distressed. A single patient can actually have both of these disorders at the same time, or only one or the other, and still be diagnosed with RAD. As of yet, health care professionals have not been able to pinpoint what, exactly, triggers these disorders. There are, however, theories about what may cause RAD.
What Causes RAD?
As mentioned above, no one is really sure what causes RAD. So far, the possible link to mistreatment and neglect has been the only one made. Children raised in environments that are unstable seem to be at higher risk. An example would be orphans or foster children. Children with a mother suffering from post-partum depression seem to also run a higher risk. Inexperienced parents may in avertedly cause this disorder in parents. Other times, simply being away from the family for extended periods could cause RAD. Or simply not receiving enough attention from their parents in general. Doctors have posited that RAD may be caused by things like malnutrition and dehydration. As of yet, no studies support these theories. Despite being raised in environments where many of these things are experienced, some children still grow up to develop healthy relationships. Research continues that tries to pinpoint just what might be the cause of RAD.
Identifying RAD
What are some symptoms associated with RAD? Here are a few:
• Not smiling at others.
• Seeming to ignore or not care when affection or care is offered or given.
• Hesitance to ask for help.
• Having a child often seem sad or apathetic, based upon expressions.
• Reacting with strong emotions (fear, anger, sadness, withdrawal) at unexpected times, or for seemingly no reason.
• Hesitance to join others in social activities, or seeming very withdrawn.
• Not reaching for a loved one when the child is being picked up or held.
• Disinterest in playing interactive games with loved ones. Examples of such games are paddy cake or peekaboo.
How Can It Be Prevented?
RAD can be prevented by giving children the attention and interaction that they deserve during their early years. Be sure to respond to your child’s wants and needs. Interaction includes physically touching them, making eye contact, talking with them, and paying attention when something seems to be wrong. Be sure to respond accordingly to their ques. Involve them in your life in meaningful ways, and involve yourself in theirs. If you feel that you are inexperienced and expecting a child, be sure to learn more about RAD. You may also benefit from taking child rearing classes.
Learning More
If you wish to learn more about RAD there are plenty of resources online that you can reference. Or, ask a medical professional for more information. If you are a foster parent, or have recently adopted a child, the institution that you interacted with may be able to provide some guidance. There are lots of places where you can learn more, if needed. Just be sure that the information you are receiving is from a reputable source. In case your child is diagnosed with RAD, a medical professional may be able to provide you with several treatment options.