This is a rare but serious condition in which an infant or young child doesn’t establish healthy attachments with parents or caregivers, typically due to a history of severe neglect or abuse. A child with RAD may seem withdrawn, emotionally unresponsive, and reluctant to seek or accept comfort. Our pediatric specialists work with children and their families to build trust and foster secure attachments.
Common Symptoms or Things to Look Out For:
- A consistent pattern of inhibited, emotionally withdrawn behavior toward adult caregivers.
- Minimal seeking or responding to comfort when distressed.
- Minimal social and emotional responsiveness to others.
- Limited positive affect.
- Episodes of unexplained irritability, sadness, or fearfulness during non-threatening interactions with adult caregivers.
- A history of experiencing a pattern of extremes of insufficient care.