Special Needs Children

  1. Home
  2. Parenting & Family
  3. Special Needs Children

Reactive Attachment Disorder

By Terri Mauro, About.com

Definition:

Reactive Attachment Disorder (RAD) is a mental health disorder in which a child is unable to form healthy social relationships, particularly with a primary caregiver. Often children with RAD will seem charming and helpless to outsiders, while waging a campaign of terror within the family. RAD is frequently seen in children who have had inconsistent or abusive care in early childhood, including children adopted from orphanages or foster care.

Get more information.

Also Known As: Attachment Disorder (AD)

Explore Special Needs Children

About.com Special Features

Out of Dinner Ideas?

Try our Meal Planner for great recipe ideas that are guaranteed to make meal prep easier. More >

What is a Recession?

Sure, we're all talking about it, but what, exactly, defines a recession? More >

Special Needs Children

  1. Home
  2. Parenting & Family
  3. Special Needs Children
  4. Special Needs Adoption
  5. Common Concerns
  6. What Is Reactive Attachment Disorder?

©2009 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company.

All rights reserved.