Definition of Reactive attachment disorder of infancy or early childhood
Reactive attachment disorder is a problem with social interaction that occurs when a child’s basic physical and emotional needs are neglected, particularly when the child is an infant.
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
Reactive attachment disorder is caused by abuse or neglect of an infant’s needs for:
Symptoms
Child:
Signs and tests
This disorder is diagnosed with a:
Treatment
Treatment has two parts. The first priority is to make sure the child is currently in a safe environment where emotional and physical needs are met.
Expectations (prognosis)
The right intervention can improve the outcome.
Review
Neil K. Kaneshiro, MD, MHA, Clinical Assistant Professor of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc. – 4/26/2010
