Reactive attachment disorder of infancy or early childhood

Table of Contents

Symptoms

Child:

  • Avoids caregiver
  • Avoids physical contact
  • Is difficult to comfort
  • Does not make distinctions when socializing with strangers
  • Resists social interaction
  • Wants to be alone

Caregiver:

  • Disregard for child's basic emotional needs for comfort, stimulation, and affection
  • Disregard for child's basic physical needs like food, toileting, and play

Signs and tests

This disorder is diagnosed with a:

  • Complete history
  • Physical examination
  • Psychiatric evaluation


Review Date: 04/26/2010
Reviewed By: Neil K. Kaneshiro, MD, MHA, Clinical Assistant Professor of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org)