Trauma and Depression (T3)

Question 1

What is reactive attachment disorder?

Answer 1

inhibited & emotionally withdrawn from their caregivers,
do not seek or respond to comfort from caregivers when distressed
show very little positive affect
present as sad, anxious, or irritable, even around caregivers

Question 2

What causes reactive attachment disorder?

Answer 2

severe physical or emotional neglect
frequent & repeated changes in primary caregivers
little emotional contact between children & caregivers

Question 3

When can a child be diagnosed with reactive attachment disorder?

Answer 3

Not before 9 months (child is still attaching) not after 5 years (attachment period is over).

Question 4

What is Disinhibited social engagement disorder (DSED)?

Answer 4

Readily approaches and interacts with unfamiliar strangers, does not “check back” with caregivers, is willing to go off with strangers without hesitation, and makes inappropriate contact (hand-holding, lap-sitting). Only diagnosed if history of severe neglect or social-emotional deprivation.