There are many children who experience attachment issues, yet I believe this to be the most misunderstood disorder, especially by professionals. In fact, what I know now, I first learned from the dedicated foster parents I worked a dozen years with at a non-profit agency. I also reviewed literature as part of a research study. This knowledge informed the development of my own techniques in private practice to help this very bright and tenacious population.
Throughout these blog posts, you will learn better how to handle the specific behaviors these children utilize to survive; my goal is for them to thrive with caregivers’ and helpers’ guidance. It is simple; however, don’t confuse this with “easy.” But will not cost a fortune and can unite the caregivers in the child’s life to work with greater harmony and less guilt. Hopefully you will learn immediate ways to help and shape children working through their reactive attachment.
Sadly, many professionals don’t even acknowledge "Reactive Attachment Disorder" (RAD) as a legitimate diagnosis and I once had a mother told by a major children’s hospital that not only does it not exist, it is a cluster of symptoms that cannot be alleviated. What a travesty that some parents hear this when they turn to a major institution for help! I not only completely disagree with this opinion, I absolutely know that with time and patience these children can be helped. I have personally seen children go from a fairly significant RAD diagnosis to not having any diagnoses by the time they graduated from high school.
It takes dedication and a desire to not make “drama” the most important part of your life, but it can be done. I have loved helping every family that has come to me to figure out how to have a normal, close family but now it’s time to put my ideas to paper, or keyboard, and try to help the many families that are dealing with kids who have attachment issues for many different reasons. What I am told I do is “sell hope” so here’s to the best job on the planet — providing hope for kids and families who otherwise would be lost.
Upcoming Chapters (Posts):
What is RAD?
Historical Treatment of RAD
C.O.N.T.R.O.L. Overview
C - Control
O - Options
N - Neutrality
T - Trust
R - Respect
O - Others
L - Love
Related Posts
