Attachment disorders (reactive attachment disorder – RAD) are emotional problems caused by a lack of a secure bond with caregivers in the early stages of childhood. They occur in children, but also in adults, translating into m.in. difficulties in establishing healthy relationships.
Causes of the development of attachment disorders
Attachment disorders most often occur in children who have experienced neglect or violence. Risk factors also include frequent change of caregivers, upbringing by emotionally unstable people or the death of a caregiver. These problems make it difficult for the child to express feelings and master the ability to establish healthy relationships.
Symptoms of attachment disorders
People with attachment disorders have difficulty with:
- trust in others – they are afraid of being hurt,
- closeness – fear of rejection or suffering prompts them to maintain emotional distance,
- expressing emotions – feelings are hidden or communicated in the wrong way, which leads to conflicts,
- establishing and maintaining relationships – shyness, lack of interpersonal competence and lack of trust in others make it difficult to build healthy contacts,
- low self-esteem – low self-esteem makes it difficult to implement plans and promotes withdrawal from social life.
How are attachment disorders treated?
Treatment of attachment disorders is based primarily on psychotherapy, which promotes the development of social skills. The therapist helps the patient to face painful memories and see the connection between them and current functioning. Changing incorrect patterns of thinking and behavior, working on trust and learning to express emotions play an important role. The therapy can last for several years, but it significantly improves the comfort of life and allows you to build healthy relationships.