What is Reactive Attachment Disorder characterized by?

Reactive Attachment Disorder (RAD) is a condition found in children that arises from insufficient care and a lack of stable, nurturing relationships during early development. The hallmark of RAD is a marked disturbance in the child's ability to form emotional bonds with caregivers, which specifically manifests as a lack of attachment behaviors towards them. This can include a noticeable failure to seek comfort or show affection, as well as a general emotional unresponsiveness in interactions with adults who are supposed to be their primary caregivers.

Understanding this, the defining characteristics of RAD focus on the absence of attachment behaviors. Children with RAD may not react in typical ways when distressed, and they may not display the expected range of emotions towards caregivers, resulting in difficulty with social relationships and emotional regulation. The disorder is typically diagnosed in early childhood, following a period of inadequate caregiving, including neglect or abuse.

This understanding helps distinguish RAD from behaviors associated with quick attachments or social withdrawal, which may correlate with other disorders but do not capture the essence of RAD as it relates to the lack of bonding and attachment displays toward caregivers.