What Is Reactive Attachment Disorder?

Having served in the United States Air Force as a Judge Advocate, L Jay Mitchell is the founder of Greenbrier Academy in Pence Springs, West Virginia, which helps young women develop into healthy and well-balanced adults. L Jay Mitchell is also interested in the topic of reactive attachment disorder (RAD).

RAD is a condition that affects infants and young children who do not form a secure or emotionally healthy bond with their primary caretakers. A primary caretaker is usually defined as a parental figure in the child’s life. Children who suffer from RAD usually have difficulty managing or expressing their emotions and forming meaningful connections with other people.

RAD is rare but can develop as a disorder if the child’s basic needs are not met, such as feeling comfort, receiving affection, and being exposed to nurturing. Some treatments to combat RAD include psychological counseling, caregiving counseling, and learning positive child and caregiver interactions.