Reactive Attachment Disorder (RAD) Treatment Center in Dallas, Texas
At BreakThrough by BasePoint, we address the mental health needs of young adults struggling with a broad range of conditions, including untreated reactive attachment disorder symptoms. If you or someone you love has contended with neglect or abuse during early childhood, our multiple RAD treatment centers in the Dallas, Texas, region offer specialized care that’s tailored to your unique needs.
Our programs are equipped to address many mental health disorders, including depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, anxiety, OCD, and more. We also collaborate with many insurance providers to reduce your out-of-pocket expenses for crucial support. Call or complete our convenient contact form to speak with a helpful BasePoint representative today. Continue reading to learn more about reactive attachment disorder treatment in Dallas.
What Is Reactive Attachment Disorder (RAD)?
Reactive Attachment Disorder (RAD) is a serious condition that can develop in young children who have difficulty bonding with their caregivers, usually due to severe emotional neglect, abuse, or inconsistent caregiving in early life. Early childhood disorders like RAD profoundly affect how a child relates to others and manages emotions.
When a child doesn’t get the warmth, safety, and attunement they need early on, they may stop looking to others for comfort or support. This can show up as social withdrawal, emotional detachment, or extreme trust issues—even with those trying to help. Those with RAD may avoid eye contact, resist physical affection, or push people away, not because they don’t care, but because they’ve learned it’s safer to stay guarded.
If reactive attachment disorder isn’t adequately treated in childhood, its effects can follow a person into adulthood. Struggles with trust, emotion regulation problems, and a lack of self-worth may persist, often without clear awareness of their roots. But the good news is that with the proper support, therapy, and a stable, nurturing environment, healing is possible. While this developmental trauma doesn’t simply go away on its own, early diagnosis and intervention can make a powerful difference in helping you feel safe enough to connect.
What Causes Reactive Attachment Disorder in Adults?
Reactive attachment disorder in adults is most often caused by unresolved childhood trauma, especially when it involves disrupted bonding during early development. Experiences like foster care trauma, neglect, abuse, or serious parent-child relationship problems can interfere with a child’s ability to form secure emotional connections.
When a young child doesn’t receive consistent, nurturing care, they may stop seeking comfort from others and begin relying only on themselves to feel safe. This pattern, often formed in response to chaotic or harmful environments, can harden over time. The result? A young adult who struggles with emotional and behavioral dysregulation, sometimes without fully understanding why.
Even if later placed in a more stable setting, the early relational trauma and damage to the attachment system can linger. Healing from RAD often requires addressing those deep-rooted patterns formed through early disrupted bonding and working through the pain of fractured relationships. With the right support, though, recovery is possible.
BreakThrough by BasePoint Accepts Insurance for Reactive Attachment Disorder Treatment
Our free assessment with a licensed clinician will provide you with a recommendation for the appropriate level of care for young adults struggling with reactive attachment disorder. We can also check your insurance coverage levels.
Call us today to schedule a same-day assessment at (972) 325-2633 or complete our inquiry form.






Find Out About Our Young Adult Treatment Admissions Process
Contact Us Form
What Are Signs and Symptoms of Reactive Attachment Disorder?
Reactive attachment disorder symptoms don’t always look the way you might expect. While some young people appear distant or withdrawn, others may act out in confusing or defiant ways. At its core, this condition is rooted in early attachment issues—when a child hasn’t developed a secure bond with a caregiver, it can affect relationships with others for years.Â
- Emotional detachment – Young people with RAD often struggle to express or even recognize their own emotions. They may seem emotionally flat or unaffected, even in situations where strong feelings would be expected.
- Avoidance of closeness – Because of early attachment disruption, they may resist affection, push others away, or avoid forming meaningful connections altogether. This isn’t about disinterest—it’s about self-protection.
- Difficulty trusting others – Trust issues can make it hard for them to believe that people will stick around or have their best interests at heart. This can lead to isolation, defensiveness, and insecure attachments.
- Anger or irritability – Some may express their pain through anger, lashing out at others, or reacting with intense frustration over minor issues. This can be a way of keeping others at a distance.
- Lack of guilt or remorse – When empathy hasn’t had the chance to fully develop due to disrupted bonding, it may show up as indifference to the feelings or experiences of others.
- Controlling or manipulative behaviors – As a way to manage their environment and reduce vulnerability, some may try to stay in control of situations, especially relationships.
These symptoms don’t come from a place of malice. They’re often the result of deep emotional wounds. Recognizing the signs is the first step toward helping yourself or someone with RAD move toward healing, connection, and healthier attachment. If you’re noticing any of these signs or symptoms or are concerned, call BreakThrough by BasePoint’s for a no-obligation evaluation. Our experienced team can conduct a free assessment to determine the next best steps.
What Are the Types of Reactive Attachment Disorder?
Reactive Attachment Disorder (RAD) presents in two primary forms: inhibited and disinhibited. With the inhibited type, you or your loved one tends to pull away emotionally, avoiding close connections and seeming emotionally distant. This is often a result of emotional neglect or inconsistent care that disrupted the ability to form healthy bonds in early childhood.
The disinhibited type is characterized by a lack of proper social boundaries. You or your loved one may act overly familiar or trusting toward strangers, seeking attention or affection in ways that feel out of place. This abnormal attachment behavior reflects early experiences where secure attachment didn’t develop. This can cause you to reach out to anyone who might provide comfort.
Both types benefit from psychotherapy to build healthier, more stable relationship skills. Contact our mental health treatment center today to learn more about your treatment options for reactive attachment disorder in Dallas, Texas.
What Are the Effects of Reactive Attachment Disorder?
If you’re navigating the challenges of Reactive Attachment Disorder (RAD), you might notice it touching every part of your life—how you connect with others, how you manage emotions, and how you behave in different situations. RAD can make building trust feel nearly impossible, leaving you emotionally distant or, at times, unsure how to act around people.
You might find yourself feeling isolated, angry, or afraid to get close, even when you want to. This can affect your self-esteem and make meaningful relationships feel out of reach. Sometimes, you might withdraw completely or, at the opposite extreme, act overly friendly with people you don’t know well, struggling to set healthy boundaries.
Behaviorally, reactive attachment disorder symptoms can show up as moments of anger, defiance, or impulsiveness, resulting in challenges at school, with friendships, or within family life. Without proper treatment, these patterns can persist well into adulthood, affecting your ability to form deep connections, maintain a steady job, or experience emotional fulfillment. However, early and focused treatment can help you regain control and build the secure, loving relationships you deserve. Call our recovery center today.
What Are Co-Occurring Disorders Associated with Reactive Attachment Disorder?
When you’re facing Reactive Attachment Disorder (RAD), it’s essential to know that it often doesn’t exist alone. Co-occurring disorders and reactive attachment disorder are common, making your experience more complex but also more understandable. Recognizing these overlapping challenges is a key step toward getting the right kind of help.
Common co-occurring disorders include, but are not limited to, the following conditions. These can amplify feelings of isolation, confusion, or frustration, making daily life feel even more overwhelming. That’s why seeking support from a specialized co-occurring disorders treatment center like BasePoint can make a real difference.
ADHD
If you’re a young adult managing RAD, you might also experience symptoms of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), such as trouble focusing, impulsiveness, or restlessness. These challenges can intensify emotional ups and downs, making everyday tasks more difficult. Understanding this overlap helps you find coping skills tailored to your unique needs.
Depression
Depression often appears alongside reactive attachment disorder, bringing waves of sadness, low energy, or feelings of hopelessness that can make it hard to stay motivated or connect with others. Recognizing this link is important because treating both together can help you regain emotional balance and rediscover hope.
Anxiety disorders
Anxiety can add another layer of struggle, causing persistent worry, tension, or physical symptoms like a rapid heartbeat. For a young adult with reactive attachment disorder, anxiety might make trusting people or stepping into new social situations feel especially overwhelming. Still, support can help you build resilience and calm.
Cognitive delays
Cognitive delays sometimes accompany RAD, affecting how quickly you process information, solve problems, or learn new skills. These challenges may slow certain areas of growth, but identifying them means you can access support designed to help you thrive on your own timeline.
Language delays
Language delays can make it harder to express your thoughts and feelings clearly, which is tough when you’re also working through reactive attachment disorder. This gap might cause frustration or misunderstandings, but with effective support, you can strengthen your communication skills and build meaningful connections.
Severe malnutrition
If severe malnutrition affected you early in life, it could have disrupted your brain development and made RAD’s effects more complex. Proper nutrition and medical care are key parts of healing—not just physically, but emotionally too—helping you create a stronger foundation for your well-being moving forward.
What Is a Reactive Attachment Disorder Treatment Program in Dallas, Texas?
A reactive attachment disorder treatment program in Dallas, Texas, helps those struggling with deep-rooted relationship and trust issues stemming from early childhood trauma. These programs are typically offered through a rehabilitation center or specialized healthcare facility, like BasePoint, that understands the complexities of RAD.
With a focus on emotional regulation, trust-building, and relational healing, you’ll benefit from therapies like trauma-informed care, individual counseling, and family therapy to rebuild the foundation for healthy attachment. Choosing reactive attachment disorder treatment in Dallas means accessing professional support in a structured environment where emotional safety and consistency are prioritized.
The goal is to help you—or your loved one—develop healthier coping mechanisms, improve emotional awareness, and learn how to form more secure, meaningful relationships. It’s not just about managing reactive attachment disorder symptoms; it’s about healing the root of the pain.
Treatment Programs for Reactive Attachment Disorder Near Me
Whether you’re looking for structure, flexibility, or a mix of both, treatment program options for reactive attachment disorder include outpatient treatment centers such as BasePoint and those we’ve briefly outlined below. These programs help you rebuild trust, regulate emotions, and form healthier relationships, all while addressing the underlying causes of early childhood disorders.
IOP for RAD Treatment
An Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) at a behavioral health center offers structured, consistent care without removing you from your daily life. This type of program involves individual therapy, group sessions, and sometimes family involvement, giving you the tools to manage reactive attachment disorder while maintaining daily responsibilities. IOPs are ideal for balanced support, offering more than standard outpatient therapy.
PHP for RAD Treatment
A Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) through a specialty treatment center like BasePoint is a more immersive option that provides full-day therapeutic support while allowing you to return home at night. This level of care is ideal if you’re dealing with more intense reactive attachment disorder symptoms, including emotional outbursts or trust issues that make relationships difficult.
Outpatient Program for RAD Treatment
Outpatient therapy through nearby therapy clinics is a great choice if your symptoms are manageable and you’re looking to maintain regular routines. This type of care usually includes weekly or bi-weekly individual sessions and can be customized to meet your emotional and relational goals. It allows you to continue working on attachment and trauma-related challenges with professional guidance over time.
Online Program for RAD Treatment
Online treatment for reactive attachment disorder in adults provides you with the flexibility to access care from anywhere. Whether you’re in a remote area, managing a tight schedule, or just feel more comfortable at home, virtual therapy can connect you to skilled providers who understand RAD. You’ll receive the same quality of support, including trauma-informed therapy and attachment work.
Residential Treatment for RAD Treatment
A residential treatment facility or inpatient treatment center offers 24/7 care in a safe, stable setting, which can be important when facing severe reactive attachment disorder symptoms. These programs give you time and space to step away from outside stress and focus entirely on healing, with access to daily therapy, structured routines, and support from trained professionals.
Medication Assisted Treatment for RAD Treatment
Although there aren’t specific reactive attachment disorder medications, some psychiatric medications can ease symptoms that commonly occur with RAD, like anxiety, mood swings, or depression. Medication assisted treatment is typically part of a broader care plan and works best when paired with psychotherapy, helping you find emotional balance and stay engaged in the healing process.
Finding a Reactive Attachment Disorder Therapy and Treatment Program in Dallas
BasePoint offers reactive attachment disorder treatment in the Dallas, Texas region. Our multiple specialty treatment centers are equipped to address a broad range of conditions through personalized, top-tier care. Our licensed, experienced professionals understand your demographic’s unique needs and use clinical expertise to aid in healthier futures for Texans.

- BreakThrough by BasePoint – Arlington, Texas: 3900 Arlington Highlands Blvd, Suite 237B, Arlington, TX 76018, United States
- BreakThrough by BasePoint – Forney, Texas: 713 W Broad St, Suite 100, Forney, TX 75126, United States
- BreakThrough by BasePoint – McKinney, Texas: 4733 Medical Center Drive, McKinney, TX 75069, United States
- BreakThrough by BasePoint – Frisco, Texas: 8275 Judges Way, Suite 100F, Frisco, TX 75036
Ways to Find a RAD Treatment Program Near Me
Finding a Reactive Attachment Disorder (RAD) therapy and treatment center near you doesn’t have to be overwhelming. If you’ve considered BreakThrough by BasePoint and determined that it doesn’t align with your needs, we’re still committed to ensuring you access the proper care. With these few steps, you can narrow your options and find a program that truly fits your needs.
Â
- Consult with Healthcare Professionals: Begin by talking with your primary care doctor, psychiatrist, or therapist. Ask for recommendations to trusted RAD treatment centers in your area.
- Use Online Search Engines: Search terms like “Reactive Attachment Disorder treatment center in Arlington, Texas” can lead you to specialized providers. You can replace “Arlington” with your specific locale. Visit RAD treatment centers’ websites to learn about services, treatment approaches, and staff expertise.
- Check Mental Health Directories: Browse directories from reputable sources like Psychology Today, Recovery.com, or SAMHSA. These often include filters for location, specialty, and insurance acceptance.
- Contact Local Mental Health Organizations: Reach out to Dallas-based mental health nonprofits or advocacy groups—they can often guide you toward reputable reactive attachment disorder treatment programs in the area.
- Explore Online Reviews and Testimonials: Google, Yelp, and healthcare-specific platforms offer reviews that provide insight into the patient experience at each center.
- Insurance Provider Assistance: Call your insurance company and request a list of in-network RAD treatment centers. This can save you time and help manage costs.
- Visit University Medical Treatment Centers: Some academic institutions offer specialized psychiatric care or research-based programs for attachment-related disorders.
- Connect with Local Mental Health Hotlines: Crisis lines or mental health hotlines often have lists of resources and can connect you to local reactive attachment disorder treatment services.
- Seek Referrals from Support Groups: Join RAD-related online forums or local support groups. Hearing about real experiences from others can reduce social withdrawal and lead you to trusted care options.
- Verify Accreditation and Licensing: Finally, make sure the center you choose is fully licensed and accredited, with clinicians trained specifically in treating reactive attachment disorder in adults.
Discover More About BreakThrough by BasePoint Today
Young Adult Treatment Locations
Forney, TX
McKinney, TX (Virtual)
Frisco, TX
Call Us
Admission Hours
7:00 AM to 7:00 PM (CST)
7 Days a Week
Therapy and Counseling Available for RAD in Dallas
If you’re searching for therapy or counseling for Reactive Attachment Disorder (RAD) in Dallas, you’re already taking an important step toward healing. Whether you’re seeking weekly talk therapy, trauma-informed care, or more intensive options, Dallas, Texas, offers a range of services tailored to your specific needs. RAD treatment centers like BasePoint take a personalized approach to healing.
Below are just a few examples of the therapy and counseling modalities available—they’re not a complete list, but they give you a good sense of where to start. Contact us today for more information on treatment for reactive attachment disorder in Dallas, Texas.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is beneficial when struggling with the intense emotions and impulsive behaviors often seen with reactive attachment disorder. This therapy focuses on building emotional regulation, mindfulness, distress tolerance, and interpersonal skills—core tools that can help you form more stable relationships and reduce emotional overwhelm.
DBT is often offered in both individual and group formats, giving you space to practice new skills in real-time while getting support from peers and professionals. It’s particularly effective when combined with other therapies as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.
Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) helps you understand how your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are connected, especially when early attachment issues have shaped the way you see the world. With CBT, you’ll learn how to challenge negative, unproductive thought patterns and develop healthier responses to stress, conflict, and relationships.
For someone with RAD, this therapy can be a powerful tool in breaking down defensive patterns and rebuilding trust in yourself and others. CBT is widely used and often forms the foundation of many programs for reactive attachment disorder treatment in Dallas, Texas.
Medication Management
While there aren’t specific reactive attachment disorder medications, psychiatric support can be a crucial part of treatment, especially if you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, or mood instability alongside RAD. A provider at a holistic treatment center like BasePoint will carefully evaluate your symptoms to determine if medications can support your overall healing.
When used thoughtfully and in combination with talk therapy, medication management can contribute to emotional regulation, mood stabilization, and remaining engaged in treatment. It's never a one-size-fits-all solution, but for many people, it can be a helpful piece of the puzzle.
Transference-Focused Psychotherapy (TFP)
Transference-Focused Psychotherapy (TFP) is a deeply relational form of therapy that explores how early attachment wounds show up in your current relationships, including with your therapist. It helps you better understand the emotional reactions you have to others and why you may struggle with closeness or trust.
TFP is especially useful for reactive attachment disorder in adults who have intense emotional shifts or black-and-white thinking in relationships. It encourages emotional awareness, insight, and growth by using the therapeutic relationship as a safe space to work through old patterns.
Individual Psychotherapy
Individual psychotherapy gives you a safe, one-on-one space to work through the pain and patterns caused by RAD. A licensed therapist will help you explore your past experiences, current struggles, and emotional triggers, guiding you toward better self-understanding and healthier attachment habits.
This form of therapy is often the heart of a RAD treatment plan, offering tailored support that evolves as you do. Whether you’re working through trauma, building trust, or just learning how to sit with your feelings, individual therapy is a strong foundation for long-term growth.
Rehabilitation and Skills Training
If RAD has made it hard for you to function in daily life—whether socially, emotionally, or academically—rehabilitation and skills training can help you rebuild. Offered at a rehabilitation center, this approach focuses on teaching practical life and social skills, emotional self-regulation, and healthy relationship behaviors.
It’s not just about learning new habits—it’s about rewiring old survival strategies that no longer serve you. With support, you can develop the confidence and capability to move through the world with more ease and connection.
Group and Family Therapy
Reactive Attachment Disorder doesn’t just affect you—it impacts the people around you, too. Group and family therapy, often offered at an integrative treatment center like BasePoint, provides a space to repair strained relationships and build healthier ways of interacting.
Family therapy can help your loved ones understand what you’re going through and how to support your growth, while group therapy gives you a chance to connect with others facing similar struggles. Both are powerful tools for building trust, empathy, and emotional resilience.

Does Health Insurance Cover Reactive Attachment Disorder Treatment in Dallas, Texas?
Yes, most health insurance plans do cover treatment for Reactive Attachment Disorder in Dallas, Texas, especially when the care is considered medically necessary. If you or your loved one is struggling with reactive attachment disorder symptoms—like emotional detachment, trust issues, or behavioral outbursts—insurance can often reduce the cost of therapy, medication management, and specialized treatment programs.
Coverage typically depends on your specific plan, but many policies include mental health benefits that apply to outpatient therapy, intensive outpatient programs, or even residential treatment. It’s essential to check whether your provider is in-network and if prior authorization is required. At BreakThrough by BasePoint, we take care of this for you. Call us to verify your insurance details for reactive attachment disorder treatment in Dallas, Texas, today.
Which Health Insurance Providers Cover RAD Treatment in Texas?
Several major health insurance providers cover Reactive Attachment Disorder (RAD) treatment in Texas, often as part of their broader mental and behavioral health benefits. Providers like Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas, Aetna, Cigna, United Healthcare, Humana, and Magellan typically offer coverage for therapies, psychiatric care, and even more intensive programs when deemed medically necessary.
That said, coverage details can vary depending on your specific plan and the type of treatment you need. Some insurance plans may require a referral, prior authorization, or an in-network mental health treatment center or provider. To make things easier, reach out to BasePoint to confirm your insurance benefits and for guidance on the next steps.
Confidential and Free Reactive Attachment Disorder Assessments in Dallas, Texas
If you’re concerned that you or someone you love may be struggling with Reactive Attachment Disorder (RAD), a confidential and free assessment in Dallas, Texas, can be a crucial first step. These assessments can identify reactive attachment disorder symptoms like emotional detachment, difficulty with trust, or disrupted relationships, offering clarity on whether RAD or a related condition may be present.
BasePoint offers specialized reactive attachment disorder assessments in a private, supportive setting. Our team uses evidence-based screening tools to uncover underlying emotional and behavioral challenges tied to early childhood disorders. This assessment is complimentary, judgment-free, and opens the door to valuable treatment recommendations—whether that’s therapy, medication management, or a structured treatment program. Call 972-325-2633 to take advantage of this free evaluation today.
How Much Does Reactive Attachment Disorder Treatment Cost Without Health Insurance Coverage?
The cost of reactive attachment disorder treatment without health insurance can vary greatly, often falling between $5,000 and $30,000 or more. Pricing depends on several factors, including the type of program—whether it’s outpatient, residential, or individual therapy—the length of treatment, and the facility’s location. Individual talk therapy sessions average between $100 and $250.
In contrast, residential programs come at a higher cost due to their 24/7 care and comprehensive services. When exploring options, it’s essential to weigh the intensity of care needed and what will offer the most meaningful support. Take advantage of our free assessment to gain treatment recommendations based on your unique needs. This service can facilitate clarity and informed decisions when it comes to reactive attachment disorder treatment.

How Much Does Reactive Attachment Disorder Treatment Cost with Health Insurance Support?
Reactive attachment disorder treatment costs with health insurance support often come with significantly lower out-of-pocket expenses. Depending on your plan and treatment needs, costs usually range from $1,000 to $10,000 a month. Final costs depend on your insurance provider, plan benefits, and the level of care received.
Most insurance plans cover essential parts of reactive attachment disorder treatment, including therapy sessions, outpatient programs, and medication management. To avoid surprises, it’s essential to review your policy for coverage details, including limitations, copays, and deductibles. You can streamline this process with a provider like BasePoint. We can help you understand what your plan covers and what you can expect financially, ensuring you receive the care you need.
What Is the Admissions Process at BasePoint for Reactive Attachment Disorder Treatment Program?
The admissions process at BasePoint for reactive attachment disorder treatment is clear, compassionate, and tailored. From the first phone call to your final treatment session, every step ensures you feel understood, supported, and set up for real healing. Our admissions process is the beginning of a relationship built on trust, stability, and the belief that healing is possible.Â
- Initial Contact
It all begins with a simple, confidential conversation. Whether you call or complete our contact form, a caring admissions specialist will walk you through the basics, listen to your concerns, and explain what to expect—no pressure, just real support.
- Initial Contact
- Assessment and Evaluation
Next, you’ll complete a full clinical evaluation to identify reactive attachment disorder symptoms and any related concerns. Through thoughtful interviews and evidence-based tools, our team builds a precise, personalized understanding of what you’re facing.
- Assessment and Evaluation
- Insurance Verification and Coverage
We handle the insurance legwork for you—verifying coverage, breaking down costs, and making sure you know exactly what’s included. You’ll never be left guessing about finances. If insurance isn’t an option, we also discuss alternative payment solutions to ensure your access to our exceptional care.
- Insurance Verification and Coverage
- Treatment Plan Development
Once your needs are fully understood, your care team will craft a customized plan that might include individual and group talk therapy, medication support, and/or skills training—whatever will best support your healing and growth.
- Treatment Plan Development
- Admissions Coordination
We’ll take care of all the paperwork and logistics so you can focus on what matters most—getting better.
- Admissions Coordination
- Orientation and Program Introduction
On day one, you’ll be welcomed into the program with a clear roadmap, introductions to your care team, and answers to any lingering questions. The goal? To help you feel grounded and ready.
- Orientation and Program Introduction
- Active Participation in Treatment
You’ll dive into personalized care that targets the core of reactive attachment disorder. You’ll regulate emotions, build trust, and connect in healthier ways, all in a safe, supportive environment.
- Active Participation in Treatment
- Progress Monitoring and Adjustments
As you grow, so does your treatment plan. At BasePoint, we regularly check in, tweak what’s needed, and keep you moving forward toward real, lasting change.
- Progress Monitoring and Adjustments
Statistics on Reactive Attachment Disorder for Young Adults in Texas
- A 2023 study published in The Journal of Clinical Psychiatry found that individuals with Reactive Attachment Disorder (RAD) often face significant psychiatric challenges, including substance use struggles and long-term difficulties with psychosocial functioning. These issues can extend well into adulthood and may be even more impairing than those linked to ADHD, which commonly co-occurs with RAD.
- Estimates suggest that around 35–40% of children who experience foster care trauma display reactive attachment disorder symptoms, highlighting the profound impact of disrupted early relationships.
- While exact figures are hard to determine, research suggests that Reactive Attachment Disorder (RAD) affects roughly one to two percent of the population.
- Families adopting children from foster care or international orphanages should be prepared for the emotional effects of early social deprivation and adoptive trauma. Partnering with providers who specialize in attachment disorders is key to offering the right kind of emotional and psychological support.
- Building and maintaining healthy relationships can be difficult for those with reactive attachment disorder. Social behaviors may feel awkward or strained, leading to isolation and emotional detachment from both peers and caregivers.
- Research shows that adopted children may be diagnosed with RAD at higher rates than those raised by their biological parents, likely due to early separation, childhood trauma, or inconsistent caregiving.
- One study found that those with RAD who experienced childhood maltreatment between the ages of five and seven showed reduced gray matter volume in the left primary visual cortex. The more types of maltreatment they endured—particularly neglect—the more pronounced the reduction.
- Reactive attachment disorder often increases vulnerability to anxiety, depression, and impulsivity. Many individuals experience intense emotional reactions, even in safe environments, and often struggle to handle frustration.