Reactive Attachment Disorder

Although it is uncommon, reactive attachment disorder can occur in children who have experienced social neglect or deprivation in their early years of life. This can occur when children lack basic emotional needs like affection or comfort or are unable to form stable attachments with caregivers. Risk may be increased for children in institutions, children who frequently change foster homes, or children whose parents have severe mental health or substance use problems. 

Signs and symptoms of reactive attachment disorder may include: 

• Unexplained withdrawal, fear, sadness, or irritability 
• Sad or lethargic appearance  
• Not seeking comfort or showing no response when comfort is given 
• Failure to smile
• Rejection of efforts to calm, soothe, and connect  
• Not engaging in social interaction 
• Failure to ask for support or assistance 
• Not wanting to engage in interactive games or playing with toys 

Attachment is the deep connection or bond between a caregiver and child, that profoundly affects development, ability to express emotions, and the development of relationships later in life. Children with reactive attachment disorder are believed to have the capacity to form attachments, but instead this ability to form attachments has been hindered by their experiences.