Reactive Attachment Disorder in Troubled Teens

By Curtis Reed

The development of Reactive Attachment Disorder (RAD) occurs during infancy and can last well into adulthood.  Troubled teens who suffer from Reactive Attachment Disorder demonstrate symptoms associated with negative/unhealthy social relationships such as disinhibition with near strangers, inappropriate familiarity, detached and unresponsive behavior with family members, preoccupied and/or defiant behavior and difficulty being comforted.  These signs can also be found in other disorders, so a teenager should not be labled with RAD until a full comprehensive analysis has taken place by a professional.  C.A.R.E. Schools has a wide variety of programs suited for the rehabilitation of troubled teens with Reactive Attachment Disorder, including other ailments, and seeks to bring healing and prosperity to teenagers and their families through therapeutic methods and individualized treatment plans.

Effects of RAD can disrupt many aspects of a troubled teen's life.  It is similar to PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder) in that affected teens will appear to be hypervigilant and anxious, night terrors might ensue, they are prone to tantrums, and both disorders are caused by a traumatizing event.  Reactive Attachment Disorder stems from a feeling of displacement or neglect and possibly abuse in childhood from their primary caretakers, so the best method of handling those with RAD is parenting with complete loving kindness.  Parents of troubled teens with RAD often need encouragement to deal with their son or daughter, for the emotional reaction of being disdained and rejected by their loved one is hurtful and confusing.  That's where C.A.R.E. Schools comes in; we have the tools necessary to rehabilitate troubled teens, facilitate full recovery, and recuperate not only their lives, but their family's as well.