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Gabler, Jennifer Ann. "Childhood trauma and attachment disorder." Menomonie, WI : University of Wisconsin--Stout, 2004. http://www.uwstout.edu/lib/thesis/2004/2004gablerj.pdf.
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Wiersum, Christina M. "Effective interventions for children with reactive attachment disorder." Online version, 2008. http://www.uwstout.edu/lib/thesis/2008/2008wiersumc.pdf.
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Mikic, Natalie. "Maternal mentalizing capacity and attachment representations of children with reactive attachment disorder." Thèse, Université de Sherbrooke, 2015. http://hdl.handle.net/11143/7979.
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Abstract : The diagnostic criteria for Reactive Attachment Disorder (RAD) have remained fairly constant over the last few decades. However, the most recent change in the fifth version of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5; American Psychiatry Association; APA, 2013) is fairly significant, as the inhibited and disinhibited types of RAD that were found in the previous versions of the manual have been removed. RAD has been replaced with a definition that resembles in some ways the previous inhibited type. Diagnosed in early childhood, this disorder interferes with the child’s ability to form secure relationships with their attachment figures and others. One of the criteria that remain constant is that deprivation in the quality of early care is a risk factor for developing RAD. Although physical abuse and extreme neglect may be easier to identify, emotional neglect is more challenging as a variable to understand. There has been less research on RAD regarding the subtle interactions between mother and child. The theory of mentalization explores some of the complications that arise in attachment and relationships to others that are aggravated by neglect, abuse, and trauma (Bateman & Fonagy 2004). The infant relies on the sensitive attunement and capacity to mentalize of the primary caregiver to help him understand what he is experiencing. The first article uses mentalization and object relations theory applied to children with RAD, in order to facilitate an understanding of these children psychologically as well as certain aspects of the relationship with their mothers. The second article presents two case studies of mother-child dyads of children who have been diagnosed with RAD. The mother and child were evaluated with instruments that provided information regarding the mother’s capacity to mentalize and the child’s attachment representations. The objective of the case studies were meant to reveal how these instruments could be utilized for the specific scores, but also to illustrate what is transpiring psychologically in the relationship between mother and child. The capacity to mentalize of the mothers was measured with the Addendum to Reflective Functioning Scoring Manual (Fonagy, Steele, Steele, & Target, 1998) applied to the Parent Development Interview-Revised (PDI-R; Slade, Aber, Berger, Bresgi, & Kaplan, 2005). The results of the mother’s scores for mentalization were in the low and questionable range. The attachment representations of the children were evaluated through the use of the Attachment Focused Coding System (AFCS; Reiner & Splaun, 2008) applied to the Attachment Story Completion Task (ASCT; Bretherton, Ridgeway, & Cassidy, 1990). The results of the instrument revealed that the two children with RAD (inhibited and disinhibited type) had lowered scores for Supportive Mother and a tendency for Avoidant Attachment Behaviour and Communication. The notions of mentalization and attachment representations were shown to provide a more profound understanding of the mother and child dyad. These evaluation methods support considering a larger study to explore the link between the mother’s capacity to mentalize and the child’s attachment representations in children diagnosed with RAD.Résumé : Les critères diagnostiques du trouble réactionnel de l'attachement (TRA) sont demeurés relativement stables au cours des dernières décennies. Toutefois, la cinquième version du Manuel diagnostique et statistique des troubles mentaux (DSM-5; American Psychiatric Association; APA, 2013) propose un seul type de TRA, qui correspond au type inhibé de la quatrième version révisée (DSM-IV-TR; APA, 2000), au lieu de distinguer entre deux types, soit inhibé et désinhibé. Diagnostiqué dans la petite enfance, le TRA interfère avec la capacité de l'enfant à former des relations sécurisantes avec ses principales figures d'attachement qui demeure un des critères diagnostiques et un facteur de risque pour le développement du TRA. Bien que l’abus physique et la négligence extrême soient plus faciles à identifier, la négligence au plan affectif est plus subtile et difficile à comprendre. Peu de recherches portent sur les interactions subtiles entre les mères et les enfants ayant reçu un diagnostic de TRA. La notion de mentalisation explore les complications qui peuvent survenir dans la relation aux principales figures d’attachement et dans les interactions sociales dans un contexte d’abus et de négligence (Bateman & Fonagy 2004). Pour être en mesure de comprendre ce qu’il vit, l'enfant nécessite des figures d’attachement sensibles et capables de mentaliser. Dans le premier article, les théories relatives aux notions de mentalisation et des relations d’objet sont utilisées pour comprendre le fonctionnement psychologique des enfants et la relation qu’ils entretiennent avec leurs mères chez des jeunes présentant un diagnostic de TRA. Dans le second article, deux études de cas de dyades mère-enfant ou l’enfant a reçu un diagnostique de RAD sont présentés. Les études de cas avaient pour objectif d’illustrer que les notions de mentalisation et de représentation d’attachement ainsi que les instruments permettant de les mesurer pourraient être utilisé pour approfondir ce qui passe entre la mère et l’enfant aux plans psychologique et relationnel. La capacité de mentalisation des mères participant à l’étude a été mesurée à l’aide de l'Échelle du fonctionnement réflexif (Addendum to Reflective Functioning Scoring Manual; Fonagy et al., 1998) appliquée à l’Entrevue sur le développement du parent (Parent Development Interview-Revised; PDI-R; Slade et al., 2005). Les résultats de la capacité de mentalisation des mères se situent dans les catégories faible ou questionnable. Les représentations d'attachement des enfants ont été évaluées en utilisant le Système de cotation centré sur l’attachement (Attachment Focused Coding System. (AFCS; Reiner & Splaun, 2008) appliqué aux Histoires d’attachement à compléter (Attachment Story Completion Task, ASCT; Bretherton, Ridgeway, & Cassidy, 1990). Les enfants participant à l’étude, ayant respectivement un TRA de type inhibé et désinhibé, ont obtenus des scores faibles dans les échelles Mère soutenante et Évitement des comportements et des communications relatifs à l’attachement. La théorie et la recherche concernant la notion de mentalisation permettent de mieux comprendre les difficultés rencontrées chez les dyades mère-enfant dont les jeunes présentent un diagnostic de TRA. Les notions de mentalisation et de représentations d’attachement ont permis d’approfondir la compréhension des dyades mère-enfant. Les méthodes d’évaluation utilisées dans la présente étude pourraient être utilisés pour explorer le lien entre la capacité de mentalisation de la mère et les représentations d'attachement de l'enfant au sein d’un échantillon plus large d’enfants présentant un diagnostic de TRA.
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Hollinger, Kevin. "Reactive attachment disorder helping adoptive parents think Biblically about attachment /." Theological Research Exchange Network (TREN), 2007. http://www.tren.com/search.cfm?p036-0380.
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Ogilvie, Alice Myrth. "The Assessment of Children with Attachment Disorder: The Randolph Attachment Disorder Questionnaire, the Behavioral and Emotional Rating Scale, and the Biopsychosocial Attachment Types Framework." PDXScholar, 1999. https://pdxscholar.library.pdx.edu/open_access_etds/4127.
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Children with attachment disorder (AD) have an ongoing risk of mental health challenges and an exacerbated resistance to traditional treatments. The inability to trust and inadequate relationship skills present a substantial challenge for supervising adults in families, child welfare, juvenile justice, public schools, and other community settings.
This study examined the assessment of AD in children between ages 6 and 18 utilizing two standardized instruments, the Randolph Attachment Disorder Questionnaire and the Behavioral and Emotional Rating Scale. A new framework developed by the author, Biopsychosocial Attachment Types (BAT), for conceptualizing childhood attachment concerns, was explored as a foundation for assessment and as a guide for an incremental corrective experiential approach for altering the child’s internal working model of attachment. Biophilia and Attachment theories were explanatory for the BAT.
This dissertation explores three research questions. First, can scores on the BERS be used to predict attachment disorder as measured by the RADQ? Second, can the three categories or six subcategories of the BAT be measured using selected BERS items plus additional author-developed items? Finally, if selected BERS items plus additional author-developed items are found to measure the BAT categories, are the resulting measures reliable and valid? The Foster Family Survey questionnaire completed by 285 foster parents of children 6 to 18 years in foster care for over three months in British Columbia, Canada, provided the data.
Reported results of these analyses included an 18-item BAT measure and a 7-item subscale which predicted RADQ scores using selected items from the BERS with an additional pool of author-developed questions. The regression equation for the RADQ score predicted from the BERS Strength Quotient yielded an adjusted r2 of .268 while the best-fit model predicted from the BAT yielded a cumulative adjusted r2 of .515. The resulting BAT measure achieved an alpha score of .91 and factor analysis distinguished the subcategories. All of these results supported the value of continued research in this urgently needed area of investigation.
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Rice, Linda J. "The biblical view of reactive attachment disorder." Santa Clarita, CA : The Master's College, 2006. http://dx.doi.org/10.2986/tren.091-0077.
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Soulounias-Arriaga, Demetria. "Parent-Child Interaction Therapy for Children Diagnosed With Reactive Attachment Disorder." Scholar Commons, 2007. http://scholarcommons.usf.edu/etd/3675.
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Parent-Child Interaction Therapy is a probably efficacious, evidenced-based
treatment, which has been proven to decrease problem behaviors of children, as well as
improve parent-child interactions. The first phase is the Child-Directed Interaction (CDI),
which allows the child to lead the play session, while parents are taught to interact
without giving demands, asking questions, or providing criticism. According to the
DSM-IV-TR, Reactive Attachment Disorder is a rare diagnosis. Many attachment
therapists indicate that traditional approaches to treatment have not been demonstrated as
being effective with these children. This study will examine the CDI phase of Parent-
Child Interaction Therapy as a potential treatment option for children diagnosed with
Reactive Attachment Disorder.
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Shepley, Robin Paul. "Children Diagnosed With Attachment Disorder: A Qualitative Study of the Parental Experience." Thesis, Virginia Tech, 2001. http://hdl.handle.net/10919/35603.
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Parents of children who have been diagnosed with Reactive Attachment Disorder (RAD) often face a challenging dilemma. They are faced with parenting children who often respond from an orientation of feeling unloved and mistrustful of their caregivers. The purpose of this study was to develop a detailed description of the story of four such parents. A multi-case qualitative design and constructivist and coping theoretical frameworks guided the investigation. The constant comparative method of analysis was used to develop three core categories that described the subtitles of parent's experiences. Parent's quotes were used to further embellish the findings. The findings include parent's experiences in recognizing RAD behavior, their response to this behavior, and advice and recommendations they would share with others dealing with this diagnosis. Parents described their child's behavior, resources and methods they used to cope, and had both encouraging and critical reflections of their experiences.Master of Science
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Howard, Amanda Roberta. "An evaluation of the psychometric properties of the Beech Brook Attachment Disorder Checklist." [Fort Worth, Tex.] : Texas Christian University, 2009. http://etd.tcu.edu/etdfiles/available/etd-10152009-085718/unrestricted/Howard.pdf.
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Kim, Sunah. "The effects of parent bonding, school bonding, belief on the structure of problem behaviors in elementary school-age children /." Thesis, Connect to this title online; UW restricted, 2000. http://hdl.handle.net/1773/8131.
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Espinoza, Rosalba, and Sarah Lopez Ramirez. "The attachment of children in foster care." CSUSB ScholarWorks, 2002. https://scholarworks.lib.csusb.edu/etd-project/2115.
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The purpose of the study was to examine the association between foster care children and the behaviors they exhibit particularly in attachment outcomes. The study was also an informative tool that addressed the impact of children with attachment issues currently in the foster care system. Examining the relationship between the two variables may be able to help parents and their children, by providing future resources necessary to both parties in case separation and loss occurs.
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Whitcomb, Deborah. "Attachment and sensory modulation : exploring connections in young children." Thesis, NSUWorks, 2014. https://nsuworks.nova.edu/hpd_ot_student_dissertations/5.
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"Submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy in the Occupational Therapy Department, College of Health Care Sciences, Nova Southeastern University."
Attachment and sensory modulation are two processes that co-occur in early development and that have an impact on the future development of the child. Attachment difficulties occur when the child cannot, for whatever reason, use the primary caregiver as a secure base from which to experience the world. Sensory modulation disorder (SMD) is characterized by maladaptive responses to sensory input. Although the literature and current research in the separate areas of attachment and sensory modulation have some parallels with regard to behavioral sequelae, relation to stress, and impact on participation, the relation of the two processes has not been the focus of published research. This research examined the relation between attachment and sensory modulation in 68 children ages 3 to 6. Two assessments were administered during the course of a home visit with each participant and primary caregiver: the Attachment Q-Set (3rd edition; AQS) and the Short Sensory Profile (SSP). There were significant correlations between the AQS security criterion (AQS-S) and the SSP as well as the AQS dependency criterion (AQS-D) and the SSP providing evidence for a relation between attachment and sensory modulation. Significance was found in simple linear regression with the SSP total score and SSP section scores for tactile sensitivity and visual/auditory sensitivity predicting AQS-D scores. Multiple regression calculations were significant for AQS-S and AQS-D predicting SSP as well as SSP section scores predicting AQS-D. These findings support the view of a dynamic model of interaction between attachment and sensory modulation development as well as among the child, the caregiver, the child-caregiver dyad, and the environment.
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Yahya, Fatahyah. "Adult attachment and relationship quality in parents of children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder." Thesis, University of Bedfordshire, 2012. http://hdl.handle.net/10547/291134.
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This study aimed to explore the influence of adult attachment on relationship quality in parents of children with ADHD. A mixed methods design was used to address the research objectives. Study One (quantitative) explored the different pressures that having a child with ADHD places on parents with different attachment styles, and how the parents differ in their way of responding to such pressures based on their attachment styles. Two hundred and fifty four participants were employed: 101 parents of children with ADHD, and 153 parents of children without ADHD. Four established questionnaires were used: Connors Parental rating Scale (CPRS), Communication Pattern Questionnaire (CPQ), Experience in Close Relationship (ECR), and Dyadic Adjustment Scale (DAS). The results showed that parents of children with ADHD reported greater marital conflict and worse dyadic adjustment than parents of children without ADHD. Moreover, behavioural problems in children with ADHD correlated negatively with interpersonal relationship in the parental couple. Finally, attachment style moderated the impact of ADHD symptoms on interpersonal problems in the couple. On the other hand, Study Two (qualitative) explored parents’ experiences of how the disorganised behaviour of children with ADHD or the normal naughtiness of children without ADHD had an impact on the relationship. The differences between parents with children with and without ADHD with regard to their attachment styles were also studied. Forty eight participants extracted from the Study One were participated in this Study Two. The results through the thematic analyses indicated that parents of children with ADHD experienced the stress related to their children’s condition which was negatively affected their couple relationship. Not only that, the parents with different attachment styles experienced differently in both group. In considering both studies, the qualitative themes may explain how attachment insecurity moderates the impact of having a child with ADHD on relationship variables. The theme may be particularly important, as it may have a negative influence on the interpersonal communication of the parents with insecurity attachment. It is proposed that this research can make a contribution towards relevant intervention programs to facilitate support for parents of children with ADHD.
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Parantainen, Johanna. "The experiences of adoptive parents rearing children with reactive attachment disorder : A systematic literature review." Thesis, Högskolan för lärande och kommunikation, Högskolan i Jönköping, HLK, CHILD, 2019. http://urn.kb.se/resolve?urn=urn:nbn:se:hj:diva-43984.
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Reactive attachment disorder (RAD) is characterised by severely underdeveloped or absent attachment between a child and a caregiver. Adopted children who have experienced adverse early experiences prior to adoption may have lacked opportunities to form selective attachment relationships and, in rare cases, may have a diagnosis of reactive attachment disorder. The needs of adoptive families rearing children with special needs, such as children with a RAD diagnosis, are unique and it is crucial to understand the experiences of the families in order to increase the understanding of how to provide support and adequate services and interventions that respond to the needs of the families. Previous research focusing on adoptive parents’ experiences rearing children with a RAD diagnosis is scarce. Therefore, this systematic literature review aimed to explore their experiences. After a comprehensive literature search, seven articles that addressed the study aim and met the predefined inclusion criteria were included. A thematic synthesis was carried out to combine the results of the included articles. The findings suggest that adoptive families rearing children with a RAD diagnosis experience a wide range of challenges in their everyday lives, such as a lack of social network support and adequate support, services and interventions from professionals and service providers. Some facilitative factors, such as adoptive parents’ willingness to stay committed to their children, were found. Further research is needed to find out effective interventions to address the complex challenges adoptive families and their children with a RAD diagnosis experience. Study limitations and methodological considerations are discussed.
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McReynolds, Dianne H. "Differences in developmental aspects of reactive attachment disordered and normal children's house-tree-person drawings." Theological Research Exchange Network (TREN), 2002. http://www.tren.com.
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Goldstein, Caroline. "Insecure attachment and psychopathology in children and adolescents : a meta-analysis." Thesis, University of Hertfordshire, 2012. http://hdl.handle.net/2299/9225.
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Since Bowlby (1958, cited in Bowlby, 1969) originally introduced the theory of attachment it has been written about extensively and a vast amount of research has contributed to the development of the theory. In more recent years research has focused on the possible link between attachment and psychopathology. The major aim of the present meta-analysis was to contribute to this research effort by establishing the magnitude of the effect size for the relationship between attachment security and internalizing psychopathology; and attachment security and externalizing psychopathology, in children and adolescents. Four separate meta-analyses were conducted investigating internalizing and externalizing problems in cross-sectional and prospective studies. A comprehensive literature search was conducted to identify relevant studies for inclusion in the analysis. Identified studies were assessed for eligibility according to stringent inclusion and exclusion criteria. A total of 23 studies contributing 45 effect size correlations, involving 3793 different participants were considered eligible for inclusion. Relevant information was extracted and coded from the studies before the analyses were conducted. For cross-sectional studies the mean effect size correlation for attachment security and internalizing psychopathology was r = -0.24 (k = 14; p <0.01; 95% CI = -0.31, -0.17). For attachment security and externalizing psychopathology the mean effect size was r = -0.28 (k = 16; p <0.01; 95% CI = -0.34, -0.21). In terms of prospective studies the mean effect size correlation for attachment security and internalizing psychopathology was r = -0.17 (k = 8; p = 0.01; 95% CI = -0.28, -0.04); and for externalizing psychopathology it was r = -0.09 (k = 7; p = 0.02; 95% CI = -0.16, -0.01). When attachment security and psychopathology were measured concurrently, there was evidence of a negative association for both internalizing and externalizing psychopathology. Although the magnitude of effect was smaller for prospective studies evidence was also found for the predictive validity of a lower level of attachment security in the development of both internalizing and externalizing psychopathology. Theoretical explanations for these findings are presented and the research and clinical implications are discussed in terms of the limitations of the study.
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Knapp, Melkowits Amanda Therese. "Art Therapy with an Adoptive Family: A Case Study of Adoptee Children with Reactive Attachment Disorder." Ursuline College / OhioLINK, 2008. http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=urs1210348357.
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Phillips, Deborah. "Developmental Pathways for Children with Disruptive Behavior Disorders." ScholarWorks@UNO, 2003. http://scholarworks.uno.edu/td/67.
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The purpose of this study was to incorporate attachment theory and psychopathy into a transactional model to explain the development of disruptive behavior disorders in children. The model tested in this study proposed two broad pathways leading to the development of disruptive behavior disorders. Each pathway was characterized by an atrisk child temperament, negative reactivity and psychopathy, which when embedded in an at-risk environment, would result in conduct problems. Hyperactivity and negative life events were hypothesized to be broad band risk factors for both pathways. The first pathway, characterized by callous-unemotional traits (CU), was hypothesized to be positively associated with thrill seeking behavior and proactive aggression in the child, and insecure attachment in the caregiver. A second pathway, characterized by child negative reactivity, was hypothesized to be positively associated with reactive aggression in the child and disorganized attachment in the caregiver. Data was collected from 48 low income caregiver/child dyads. Children were between the ages of 6 and 12 (mean age=9.3, SD=1.85), and received services from a state mental health clinic. A series of hierarchical regression analyses were performed to evaluate the relationship between the predictor variables and conduct problems. A primary finding was an extremely strong positive correlation between CU traits and conduct problems. Also, several distinct differences were found between groups of children low and high on CU traits. For those children low on CU traits, thrill seeking behaviors were positively associated with conduct problems, while negative life events, attachment insecurity, and attachment disorganization were all negatively associated with conduct problems. For the children high on CU traits, thrill seeking and attachment insecurity had no meaningful impact on conduct problems, while negative life events and attachment disorganization were positively associated with conduct problems. Hyperactivity, proactive aggression, reactive aggression, and negative reactivity were all broad risk factors for conduct problems in this study. The findings of this study suggest that several developmental pathways do exist for children who develop conduct problems, and that future research should utilize developmental models that include a number of broad risk factors, as well as factors that may be specific to certain developmental pathways.
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Dinicola, Jennifer Ann, and Tamara Ann Pine. "Eating disorders and early attachment difficulties." CSUSB ScholarWorks, 1999. https://scholarworks.lib.csusb.edu/etd-project/1937.
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Lowe, Kathern Ruth. "A quantitative study of parental drug use and its effects on attachment." CSUSB ScholarWorks, 1999. https://scholarworks.lib.csusb.edu/etd-project/1848.
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Rice, Denise Cathleen. "Attachment behaviors displayed by children in foster care." CSUSB ScholarWorks, 2001. https://scholarworks.lib.csusb.edu/etd-project/1982.
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The purpose of this study was to evaluate the level of attachment, secure or insecure, displayed by foster children after a minimal one-hour separation from their foster parent. The sample consisted of fifty foster parents (22 males and 28 females) who had foster children ranging in ages from 3-12. The foster children have lived in the current foster care placement for at least one month. To measure the foster child's level of attachment to the foster parent, the foster parent completed a demographic survey as well as the Parent/Child Reunion Inventory (Marcus 1988). Analysis was conducted using a variety of univariate (descriptive statistics, frequencies), bivariate (t-test, correlation), and mulivariate (multiple regression) analyses to describe the sample population and significant correlations among the various independent and dependent variables. As expected, foster parents reported secure attachment behaviors for foster children the longer the child has lived in their home. Two factors that appear to influence attachment are the length of time in the foster parents in the home. This information is valuable to the foster care arena for calculating secure attachment between foster children and their caregivers.
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Wark, Mary Jo. "Maternal psychological characteristics and parent-child relationships." Virtual Press, 2006. http://liblink.bsu.edu/uhtbin/catkey/1344196.
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This study compared the presentation of attachment quality and maternal psychological functioning among children diagnosed with a psychological/behavioral disorder to the presentation of attachment quality and maternal psychological functioning among children not diagnosed with a psychological/behavioral disorder.Participants included a clinical group composed of 8 Caucasian mothers of male children diagnosed with a behavioral/emotional disorder and a nonclinical group composed of 24 Caucasian mothers of male children not diagnosed with a behavioral/emotional disorder. The groups were compared on their responses to the Personality Assessment Screener, Parent/Child Reunion Inventory, and Relationship Questionnaire.Results found that mother psychological functioning was significantly related to ratings of insecure parent-child attachment. In addition, mother ratings of their adult attachment relationships were associated with ratings of parent-child attachment security/insecurity for 3 of 4 adult attachment styles. Information gathered during this study provided preliminary insight into the complex nature of parent-child relationships as they co-exist with maternal psychological functioning.Department of Educational Psychology
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Giannotti, Michele. "Attachment in school-age children with Autism Spectrum Disorder: moving to the level of representations to meet their needs." Doctoral thesis, Università degli studi di Trento, 2020. http://hdl.handle.net/11572/252418.
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Despite a large body of research has investigated child attachment during middle childhood, only a limited number of studies has focused on children with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Additionally. The few studies available on this topic have exclusively used self-reported measures to assess quality of attachment, overlooking the role of internal representations, which are considered to play a fundamental role since attachment is internalized. Therefore, no studies examined the way in which child attachment representations are associated with child diagnosis, parenting and caregiving environment in ASD.
In the first study, we assessed attachment representations in children with ASD, Learning Disabilities (LD) and Typical development (TD). In particular, we investigated possible group differences on perceived attachment to parents, self-protective strategies and quality of attachment implicit representations using the Dynamic Maturational Model of Attachment and Adaptation (DMM). The Study 2 focused on the caregiving environment and its influence on child attachment implicit representations. To this aim, we assessed parenting stress and parental style in mothers and fathers of children with ASD and TD, examining whether parents of children with ASD differ from those of matched TD group. Secondly, we examined which caregiving environment dimensions contribute significantly in predicting at-risk attachment representations, assessing separately the contribution of maternal and paternal parenting stress and parental interactive social style.
In the third study maternal and paternal attachment style were assessed to test the hypothesis of attachment continuity across generations. Firstly, we investigated whether parents of children of ASD reported higher level of attachment-related avoidance/anxiety compared to their TD counterpart. Next, the associations between attachment style of both mothers and fathers and quality of child attachment representations was tested, by examining the moderation effect of child ASD diagnosis.
The Study 4 investigated the role of other potential child attachment predictors. Due higher co-occurrence of ASD and difficulties in identifying, describing and distinguishing one’s own feelings, the predictive effect of alexithymia on child explicit attachment representations was tested. Moreover, we also examined whether children with ASD reported higher level of alexithymia compared to controls.
The Study 1 showed that children with ASD are able to develop secure and coherent attachment implicit representations, albeit with a lesser extent compared to typically developing children. They were able to engage the attachment interview, confirming the suitability of this method in this clinical sample. Importantly, children with ASD showed high-risk attachment implicit representations and greater presence of unresolved trauma and modifiers, despite no differences emerged on perceived attachment to parents. The lack of group difference on perceived attachment suggested that implicit and explicit attachment representations of children with ASD originate from different sources of information. It is plausible that low reflective functioning, impaired metacognition as well as altered psychobiological processes of children with ASD contributed to attachment maladaptive information processing. Secondly, we replicated the well-established finding of higher parenting distress in parents of children with ASD compared to controls also in fathers. Moreover, the Study 2 documented less didactic and limit/setting style in parents of children with ASD. In accordance to a bidirectional perspective, these parenting behaviors were interpreted as parental functional responses to adapt to child unusual social-communication. Interestingly, data revealed a significant effect of maternal parenting stress and social exchange style on child attachment implicit representations. Thus, the study supports the coexistence of both child-driven and parent-driven effects in the context of parent-child relationship in ASD. Similarly, the Study 3 documented that children with ASD who have an insecurely attached primary caregiver showed at-risk attachment implicit representations. In other words, the continuity of attachment security across generations revealed a clear effect in ASD, suggesting that these children may be more susceptible to this mechanism compared to controls. In addition, parents of children with ASD reported higher attachment-related avoidance in comparison to their TD counterpart. This difference could be associated to the significant couple adjustment associated to the impact of rear a child with ASD. In addition, the Study 4 showed that alexithymia, but not ASD predicts perceived attachment to parents highlighting the different nature of attachment explicit and implicit representation. Moreover, our results confirmed higher co-occurrence of alexithymia and ASD also in school-age, extending literature on adulthood.
Our findings pointed out that children with ASD (without intellectual disability) showed higher rates of at-risk self-protective strategies (attachment pattern). These results may be related to several factors associated with ASD symptoms, such as the more frequent disruptions of interpersonal exchanges with the caregiver across development, the difficulties in social information processing and reflective functioning. The higher exposure to adverse childhood experience (e.g. bullying), may explained the higher occurrence of unresolved trauma in these children. Up to date, to the best of our knowledge, these are the first studies on group differences and parental predictors of attachment implicit representations in school-age children with ASD. Therefore, these studies brought initial data to ASD literature on attachment representations, suggesting that these children are at increased risk of developing maladaptive information processing. Limitations of the studies and clinical implications are discussed.
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Coughlin, Michael. "A comparison of social information processing in children with and without reactive attachment disorder and the association with behavioural difficulties." Thesis, University of Glasgow, 2011. http://theses.gla.ac.uk/2913/.
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The aims of this cross-sectional case-control study were to explore the social information processing (SIP) patterns of children with reactive attachment disorder (RAD) and their association with behavioural difficulties. The sample consisted of 23 children with RAD aged 4-12 matched by age and gender with a comparison sample of typically developing peers. Children completed an assessment package investigating the encoding, interpretation, response access and response evaluation components of SIP and their intellectual functioning and verbal comprehension, while caregivers completed two instruments measuring child behavioural difficulties. The children with RAD displayed significantly more errors in encoding, interpretation and response evaluation than the comparison group. There was also a tendency for children with RAD to access more aggressive responses than comparison children. In addition, there were strong associations between aspects of SIP and child behavioural difficulties, with the strongest association between encoding and emotional problems. However, both intellectual functioning and verbal comprehension were significantly associated with behavioural difficulties suggesting these variables may impact on the relationship between SIP and behavioural difficulties. The overall findings suggest that children with RAD process social information in a biased manner and this is partially associated with behavioural outcomes. The strengths and limitations of the study are discussed in addition to suggestions for future research.
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Cormier, Brandie. "Attachment theory and art therapy : indications of attachment in the art therapy of two children with disruptive behavior disorders." Thesis, National Library of Canada = Bibliothèque nationale du Canada, 1999. http://www.collectionscanada.ca/obj/s4/f2/dsk1/tape7/PQDD_0016/MQ47742.pdf.
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Peacock, Regina, and Julio Cesar Fisher. "The effects of parental attachment and parenting style on the development of violent and general deliquent behaviors in preadolescent youths." CSUSB ScholarWorks, 2001. https://scholarworks.lib.csusb.edu/etd-project/2086.
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The purpose of this study was to determine the extent to which insecure attachment formation and the laissez-faire of authoritarian parenting style predict violent or general delinquent behaviors in preadolescent youths. The present study analyzes archival data from the first wave of a longitudinal study on delinquent behaviors. Two hundred six male and female sixth grade students were surveyed. A correlation design was used to determine predictors of violent and general delinquent behaviors among these preadolescent youths. Regression analysis was used to determine which predictor offered the best explanation of violent and delinquent behavior. It was found that for boys and girls, insecure attachment was indeed significantly correlated with violent and general delinquent behaviors. However, parenting styles was not at all correlated with those behaviors in boys. Conversely, for girls, regression analysis indicated that the Laissez-faire parenting style was a more significant predictor of violent and general delinquent behaviors. These findings are important in that they may be used to help design programs to abate the rising tide of delinquency and violence among preadolescent youths. The results of this study indicate the need for parental involvment in such programs.
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Holt, Kate Eloise, and mikewood@deakin edu au. "A clinical investigation of attachment theory and the manifestation of psychological disturbance." Deakin University. School of Psychology, 2005. http://tux.lib.deakin.edu.au./adt-VDU/public/adt-VDU20050825.093259.
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The affectional bond that develops between caregiver and child during infancy can lead to the development of emotional distress and the manifestation of psychological disturbance if the relationship is severed and a sense of loss is experienced. Furthermore, the caregiver-child relationship formed during infancy can have implications for the development of interpersonal relationships in later life. The secure or insecure attachment relationships developed influence the capacity to form affectional bonds in later life and may lead to the manifestation of psychological disturbance, such as depression.
The focus of this thesis is on four case studies of three children and one adolescent who have suffered negative early life experiences. Harrison is an 8 year old Koori boy who has suffered from maternal deprivation. Diana is a 10 year old girl who has a Mild Intellectual Disability and Epilepsy. The influence of second generational trauma on the caregiver-infant attachment relationship will also be explored in the case study of Diana. The third case study focuses on Melanie who is a 9 year old girl who has suffered from paternal sexual abuse and exhibits indiscriminate attachment relationships. Finally, the fourth case study focuses on Tammie who is a 16 year girl who exhibits depressive symptomatology which may have developed as a result of early insecure attachment relationships. The case studies are described with reference to attachment theory, the language and social deficits associated with negative early life experiences, and implications for therapeutic interventions.
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Spencer, Michael S. "Behavior problems in children of adolescent mothers : exploring the role of attachment as a protective factor /." Thesis, Connect to this title online; UW restricted, 1996. http://hdl.handle.net/1773/11172.
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Van, Huyssteen Almarie. "Applying attachment theory to explore the emotion regulation characteristics of a child diagnosed with ADHD." Thesis, Stellenbosch : University of Stellenbosch, 2009. http://hdl.handle.net/10019.1/2629.
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Thesis (MEdPsych (Educational Psychology)--University of Stellenbosch, 2009.ENGLISH ABSTRACT: Bowlby (1969) described infant attachment as the emotional bond that ties the infant to one or a few figures across time and distance. He claimed that internal working models are shaped by early experiences and that attachment behaviour is programmed within these models. According to Bowlby, internal working models are carried forward and have an effect on the development of personality, emotion regulation characteristics and behaviour later in life (Goldberg, 2000). Attachment Theory and emotion regulation are closely linked. The parent-child relationship plays an important role in the development of emotion regulation skills. According to research and subsequent literature, children with attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) have difficulty with emotion regulation. A limited number of studies have focused on the emotion regulation characteristics of children with ADHD, using Attachment Theory as lens. In this study, Attachment Theory was applied to explore the emotion regulation characteristics of a ten-year-old girl with ADHD. A series of observations were central to the process of producing data, as observation plays an eminent role in the history of attachment research. Within the series of observations, together with three semi-structured interviews, the child‟s emotion regulation characteristics were identified. The parent-child relationship and the parents‟ level of reflective functioning played a significant role to identify the characteristics of emotion regulation. A literature review and information from documents (e.g. reports from multi-disciplinary professionals) contributed to the validity of the findings. It was found that the girl with ADHD was significantly insecure in her general functioning. The themes that emerged elicited the interface and interaction between attachment behaviour, emotion regulation and ADHD. Future research should focus on Attachment Theory and ADHD. Parents, teachers and multi-disciplinary professionals who have or work with children diagnosed with ADHD will benefit from Attachment Theory.
AFRIKAANSE OPSOMMING: Bowlby (1969) het gehegtheid of binding beskou as die emosionele band wat tussen die jong baba aan een of meer versorgers gevorm word. Hy het beweer dat hierdie band mettertyd „n interne model van gehegtheid vorm, en dat latere gedrag volgens hierdie modelle uitgeleef word. Volgens Bowlby word interne werksmodelle oorgedra van die primere versorger na die kind. Hierdie modelle het n uitwerking op spesifieke aspekte van die persoonlikheid, op die regulering van emosies en op gedrag binne verhoudings asook tydens konflik later in die lewe (Goldberg, 2000). 'n Noue verbintenis bestaan tussen gehegtheidsteorie en die regulering van emosie. Die ouer-kind-verhouding speel 'n belangrike rol in die ontwikkeling van vaardighede om emosie te reguleer. Volgens navorsing vind kinders met aandagtekort-hiperatiwiteitversteuring (ATHV) dit moeilik om emosies te reguleer. 'n Beperkte aantal studies gebruik gehegtheidsteorie om die regulering van emosies by kinders met ATHV na te vors. In hierdie studie is gehegtheidsteorie toegepas om die eienskappe van emosie – regulering by 'n tienjarige dogter wie met ATHV gediagnoseer is, te verken. 'n Reeks observasies was sentraal tot die proses van dataversameling, omdat observasie 'n besondere rol in die geskiedenis van gehegtheidsnavorsing speel. Binne „n reeks van waarnemings, tesame met drie semi-gestruktureerde onderhoude, is die eienskappe van die kind se regulering van emosies geïdentifiseer. Die ouer-kind-verhouding en die ouers se vlak van reflektiewe funksionering speel 'n belangrike rol in die identifisering van eienskappe om emosie te reguleer. 'n Literatuuroorsig en inligting uit dokumente (bv. verslae van multidissiplinêre professionele persone) het bygedra tot die geldigheid van die bevindings. Dit is gevind dat die dogter met ATHV beduidend onveilig in haar algemene funksionering was. Die temas wat na vore gekom het, het die skakeling en interaksie tussen gehegtheidsgedrag, die regulering van emosie en ATHV aan die lig gebring. Ouers, onderwysers en multidissiplinêre professionele persone wat kinders het of wat werk met kinders wat met ATHV gediagnoseer is, sal baat vind by gehegtheidsteorie.
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Graumann, Esther. "Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder as a response to traumatic stress." Diss., Pretoria : [s.n.], 2006. http://upetd.up.ac.za/thesis/available/etd-05072007-174733.
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Keller, Thomas Everett. "Investigating the development of early childhood problem behaviors : a person-oriented analysis of attachment in the context of multiple risks /." Thesis, Connect to this title online; UW restricted, 2000. http://hdl.handle.net/1773/11186.
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Holt, Kate, and mikewood@deakin edu au. "Preventing weight and muscle concerns among preadolescents." Deakin University. School of Psychology, 2005. http://tux.lib.deakin.edu.au./adt-VDU/public/adt-VDU20050825.094217.
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The high level of weight and shape concerns amongst preadolescent children has prompted interest in the development of prevention programs for this age group. In the 1990s weight and shape concerns were considered primarily an adolescent phenomenon. However, prevention programs which have been designed with adolescent and adult populations have been found to show limited success. Some researchers have argued that programs which target preadolescent children are more likely to be effective than programs that target adolescents, as by adolescence many attitudes and behaviours have become entrenched so they may be more difficult to modify. On the other hand, children's weight and shape concerns are believed to be more malleable and amenable to change. To date there have been limited controlled studies implementing prevention programs designed to reduce weight and shape concerns with preadolescent populations.
The new study conducted as part of this thesis involves the development and implementation of the Everybody s Different, Nobody Else Is Me preadolescent prevention program. The program was designed to address some of the methodological biases of past research and incorporate three risk factors, social comparisons, negative affect, and self-esteem, to reduce and/or prevent the development of weight and muscle concerns among children. These three risk factors have been found to be associated with weight and shape concerns of adolescents and adults, and there is also increasing evidence that they are important factors among children. Research also suggests that social comparisons, negative affect, and self-esteem are interrelated, which highlights the importance of targeting the variables in one program.
The new five session prevention initiative was implemented with 156 grade four children. Both the treatment and control conditions consisted of 78 children. Preliminary evidence from the new prevention initiative indicated that the program reduced muscle bulk and exercise (ie. An over-emphasis on exercise to lose weight rather than health promotion), and negative affect in the long term as assessed by the six month follow-up. At the six month follow-up, children in both the treatment and control conditions reported reduced negative affect, dieting, and muscle bulk and exercise scores and increased positive affect. Consistent with short term follow-up results, boys reported greater muscle bulk and exercise scores than girls at the six month follow-up. Girls, in both conditions, were also found to report greater positive affect than boys. These findings are discussed in relation to past research, and suggestions for future prevention initiatives are highlighted.
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Mellor, Sharon Jean. "The use of drawings for rapport building with international adoptees and parents." CSUSB ScholarWorks, 2000. https://scholarworks.lib.csusb.edu/etd-project/1691.
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"The influx of children adopted into the United States from other countries has increased the need for social workers experienced in practice techniques that asssist in building rapport between the parents and children in these newly formed families. This study explored the use of employing the kinetic family drawing as a tool to build rapport between parents and children. This was an exploratory multiple case design. Six families participated in the process of drawing a picture of their family engaged in an activity together. It was anticipated that the drawings would be an effective tool to build rapport between parent and child."
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Waldon, Elizabeth, and Debbie Ann Davis. "An exploratory study of foster care emanicipation in an adult population: Home again, home again." CSUSB ScholarWorks, 2001. https://scholarworks.lib.csusb.edu/etd-project/2258.
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This qualitative study explored the foster care emanicipation experience of adults who had "aged out" of the foster care system. This study found that foster care had negative impacts on participants' ability to form attachments while in foster care and in their adult relationships.
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Falzone, Andrea N. "Reading the need : an exploration of caregiver sensitivity, caregiver attribution, and child disruptive behaviors /." Full-text of dissertation on the Internet (409.93 KB), 2010. http://www.lib.jmu.edu/general/etd/2010/doctorate/falzonan/falzonan_doctorate_07-07-2010.pdf.
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Walton, Laura Carol. "Attachment and metacognition in borderline personality disorder." Thesis, University of Edinburgh, 2010. http://hdl.handle.net/1842/7591.
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Background: Borderline personality disorder (BPD) is a psychiatric diagnosis characterized by emotional and behavioural instability, and impaired ability to maintain relationships. Previous research has demonstrated an association between BPD and insecure attachment style. It has been argued that BPD is a disorder of attachment, with insecure attachment being associated with inadequate capacity to represent mental states, or to “mentalize”. There is evidence that people with BPD are impaired in their capacity to mentalize in the context of attachment relationships. The term “mentalization” encompasses a broad range of processes including metacognition. There is a theoretical basis for metacognitive deficits in BPD. However, there is a lack of empirical evidence regarding the role of metacognition in BPD and its relationship to adult attachment style. Method: Participants with BPD were recruited from Community Mental Health Teams, Clinical Psychology and a Dialectal Behaviour Therapy (DBT) service within NHS Highland. A comparison group of participants without BPD were recruited from the Clinical Psychology service, having been referred for symptoms of depression. Both groups were administered the Relationship Scales Questionnaire (RSQ)(a self-report measure of attachment); and a short version of the Metacognitions Questionnaire (MCQ-30). Severity of clinical symptoms and current mood was assessed using the Clinical Outcomes in Routine Evaluation (CORE) and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). Results: Participants with BPD scored significantly higher than those without BPD on the attachment-anxiety and attachment-avoidance dimensions of the RSQ. The BPD group also endorsed MCQ-30 items more than the comparison group. There was a significant difference between the groups on the MCQ-30 total score and four of the five subscale scores. There were significant positive correlations between attachment dimension scores and metacognition subscales. The strongest associations were between attachmentanxiety and “uncontrollability and danger” and “need to control thoughts” subscales of the MCQ-30. Only metacognition was predictive of current mood and distress levels. Conclusions: The results of this study show that people with BPD report high attachment-avoidance and attachment-anxiety in their relationships, relative to a non-BPD, depressed comparison group. These findings are consistent with the existing literature regarding the profile of attachment in BPD. This study also found that people with BPD also have more maladaptive metacognitions than people with symptoms of depression. An association between self-reported adult attachment style and maladaptive metacognitiion was demonstrated in the present study. Maladaptive metacognitive strategies and beliefs potentially contribute to maintenance of depressed and anxious mood, as well as broader symptoms of distress.
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Forshee, Danielle L. "Vagus nerve stimulation for reactive attachment disorder." Thesis, Capella University, 2014. http://pqdtopen.proquest.com/#viewpdf?dispub=3637057.
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Reactive Attachment Disorder (RAD) is a potential consequence of pervasive neglectful and unpredictable caregiving behaviors, and has extensive psychological and daunting consequences on the vulnerable and developing young brain. Current treatment strategies for RAD are conspicuously lacking, relying on indiscriminately targeted psychopharmacological therapies with pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic complications due to developmental vulnerabilities, and the unavailability of evidence based psychotherapeutic interventions. At present, there is an acute demand for innovative research into more developmentally sensitive and neurobiologically targeted treatment strategies for this population, and as a result, Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS) is being proposed as a potentially efficacious treatment for children with RAD due to the targeted effects on limbic system structures and neurotransmitter systems that are directly implicated in the neurobiology of RAD. Rationale for the use of VNS in the pediatric RAD population is based upon evidence from the safety and efficacy of VNS in the pediatric epileptic population, in conjunction with the fairly consistent observed anxiolytic and mood stabilizing effects reported in multiple clinical studies.
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Olsen, D. Rachel. "Childhood attachment patterns and internalized working models of attachment." Virtual Press, 1998. http://liblink.bsu.edu/uhtbin/catkey/1117115.
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In this study, results from Epstein's (1983) study were replicated and parental acceptance was found to be significantly correlated with measures of global self-esteem and lovability. This study extends his work to examine the unique effect of parental nonconcordance (i.e., one parent experienced as accepting and the other parent experienced as rejecting). Undergraduate students (N = 259) completed the Mother-Father-Peer Scale and the Multidimensional Self-Esteem Inventory. Results of the hierarchical multiple regression analysis supported the hypotheses that mother acceptance is a better predictor of global self-esteem and lovability than father acceptance in cases of parental nonconcordance. The results are discussed in lights of Bowlby's (1969/1982. 1973, & 1980) attachment theory, the construct of internal working models of attachment and the hierarchical nature of these models.Department of Counseling Psychology and Guidance Services
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Thompson, E. "Exploring empathy and attachment in Borderline Personality Disorder." Thesis, University College London (University of London), 2014. http://discovery.ucl.ac.uk/1448855/.
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Aim: The aim of the present literature review was to explore whether empathy can be reliably measured in adults. After a review of current empathy measures, the focus was on the strengths and weaknesses of two empathy measures in particular; the Interpersonal Reactivity Index (IRI) and the Empathy Quotient (EQ). They were analysed in regards to validity, reliability, and clinical administration. Method A literature search was conducted focusing on measures of empathy, specifically the use of the IRI and the EQ, within adult populations. Additional literature limitations included a focus on articles from the years 1980 to 2014, within peer-reviewed journals, and focusing on tests and measures. Results An initial 198 references were identified. After an abstract search, 29 references were considered possible candidates for review. After a quality appraisal of the articles, 14 references were finalised for review. Conclusions The analyses of the psychometrics of the EQ and IRI were explored, and both have evidence of good validity, reliability and ease of utility. The IRI has less evidence of validity within clinical populations, whereas the EQ was designed for this purpose and shows strong construct, discriminant and convergent validity, and strong test-retest reliability among various cultures and clinical populations.
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Bourne-MacKeigan, Laurie. "An exploration of dissociative identity disorder as an attachment disorder, incorporating a male perspective /." Thesis, McGill University, 2000. http://digitool.Library.McGill.CA:80/R/?func=dbin-jump-full&object_id=30778.
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The foundation for this thesis was extrapolated from a case study of a male with Dissociative Identity Disorder. This study explores one man's journey of survival and the recurring issues that have deterred his complete healing. Sexual abuse is examined in its social and political context as well as issues related to male victimization. The myths and stereotypes surrounding males who have been sexually abused are addressed. The notion that only women are sexually abused and that men abuse, is challenged.This case is analyzed by focusing on the trauma, the immediate effects, the immediate adaptation and the long term consequences. The long term effects are addressed in-depth and focus on issues such as grief and loss and attachment related difficulties. The theory that links attachment in infancy and attachment-related trauma to later dissociative symptoms is addressed. Also, the notion that abuse is often symptomatic of the system of caregiving within the family is argued. The nature and duration of the abuse is not random, but systematically related to the family's functioning. In this respect, Dissociative Identity Disorder is viewed as an adaptive technique resulting from an abusive situation, rather than a pathology.
The importance of incorporating a loss model in treating these individuals is emphasized by addressing non-bereavement losses and attachment related issues.
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Niemann, Sandra. "Attachment behavior in children adopted internationally." Diss., Search in ProQuest Dissertations & Theses. UC Only, 2009. http://gateway.proquest.com/openurl?url_ver=Z39.88-2004&rft_val_fmt=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:dissertation&res_dat=xri:pqdiss&rft_dat=xri:pqdiss:3390066.
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Forde, Elizabeth. "Attachment patterns in children with ADHD." Thesis, University of Edinburgh, 2007. http://hdl.handle.net/1842/24578.
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Initially, the attachment patterns of a sample of children with ADHD were identified. A between groups comparative analysis was then employed to compare the attachment patterns of children with ADHD and the normative data. The ADHD sample comprised two groups: (i) children that were looked after and accommodated and (ii) children that were living with their biological parents. In this study looked after and accommodated children represented a high risk comparison group for ADHD and early disruptive experiences. The attachment patterns of these two groups of children were also compared. Children with insecure and secure attachment classifications were then compared on measures of internalising and externalising problems and parent/guardian stress. Overall, children with ADHD did not display a significantly higher proportion of insecure attachment patterns than children from the normative data. Although, children that were looked after and accommodated did display a higher percentage of insecure attachment patterns compared to children that live with their biological parents, this difference was not significant. Additionally, there was no difference between the scores of secure and insecure children with ADHD in the following areas: social problems, oppositional problems, emotional problems, anxiety problems and problems with perfectionism. However, the parents/guardians of children with insecure attachment patterns showed significantly higher levels of stress compared with the parents/guardians of children with a secure attachment pattern. The findings of the current study do not support the previous research which has found evidence in support of an association between ADHD and high rates of attachment insecurity. Despite these findings, it is argued that for children with ADHD and an insecure attachment pattern, consideration should be given to exploring the child’s behaviours within the context of the parent-child attachment relationship. For these children, attachment theory might offer additional help in formulating interventions instead of viewing problematic behaviours exclusively in terms of ADHD.
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Kritzberger, Karen, and Dawn Peria. "Attachment of children in foster care." CSUSB ScholarWorks, 1994. https://scholarworks.lib.csusb.edu/etd-project/973.
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Joseph, David M. "PTSD in married police officers : associations with individual attachment style, couple attachment behaviors, and masculinity /." Connect to CIFA website:, 2008.
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Shea, Elizabeth Anne. "Perseverant feeding disorder in children." Thesis, University of Birmingham, 2004. http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.408796.
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Cowan, Justin A. "Auditory processing disorder in children." Thesis, University of Nottingham, 2006. http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.441013.
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Vasquez, Matthew Lorenzo. "The impact of reactive attachment disorder on adoptive family functioning." Diss., University of Iowa, 2014. https://ir.uiowa.edu/etd/4783.
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Adopted children with special needs can experience a multitude of developmental, emotional, and behavioral issues as a result of pre-adoption maltreatment. On rare occasions, maltreated children can display behaviors severe enough to fit the criteria of reactive attachment disorder (RAD). Children with RAD are known to engage in self-destructive behavior, talk of killing others or themselves, verbal and physical aggression toward peers and adults, and a lack of discernment between parental figures and strangers. Given the uniqueness of these behaviors, the rarity of the disorder, and the lack of research in this area, further exploration is warranted. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to explore the effects an adopted child with reactive attachment disorder (RAD) has on family functioning.
Due to their being little research on RAD in the context of families, an exploratory approach was determined to be the best fit for this study. Kathy Charmaz's constructivist grounded theory guided this qualitative inquiry. Her approach, coupled with the use of semi-structured interviews, allowed for rich, descriptive information to be obtained, while allowing the researcher to include aspects of his experience in working with children with RAD. The relevant data collected included five families from the Midwest, and consisted of a total of 28 participants, with 14 adults and 14 children. The adopted children's mental health assessments, individual education plans, and the researcher's field notes were also included. Data analysis consisted of the constant comparative method.
RAD behaviors were found to manifest themselves on a developmental continuum, with two dominant forms of thinking and behaviors identified. These behaviors are characterized as control-based, and are often perpetuated by high levels of anxiety. When this anxiety becomes unmanageable for the child, it is released in the form of rages toward those caregivers who are deemed as safe and for whom the child as the strongest relational bond. Traditional child therapies and behavior modification techniques were found to do little to change the course of these behaviors. Since children with RAD had no physical sign of a disorder, this commonly led the public to perceive their behaviors as being the result of parental incompetency. Parents who continually experienced public criticism found themselves purposefully withdrawing from society. This withdrawal was related to an increased sense of isolation, which was related to increased levels of stress, somatic complaints, and marital discord. Possible neurobiological factors involved in the development of RAD are discussed, along with practice and policy implications for families who adopt children with RAD.
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McGauley, G. A. "Adult attachment status and psychological disorder : the predictive validity of adult attachment in violent, personality-disordered patients." Thesis, University College London (University of London), 2011. http://discovery.ucl.ac.uk/1333239/.
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This thesis explores the role of attachment in a group of violent, personality-disordered patients in a high secure hospital. The research examines the mental representation of attachment and the perception of parenting, as assessed by the Adult Attachment Interview and the Parental Bonding Instrument, in this patient group and examines whether these differ from those of non-violent psychiatric patients. A prospective study examines whether the attachment measures predict change across a range of outcomes for this group of violent, personality-disordered patients. This thesis begins with a qualitative literature review on attachment and the development of psychopathology, focussing on attachment and psychiatric disorder in adulthood. The question as to whether particular attachment classifications are associated with specific psychiatric disorders is further investigated by a systematic review and meta-analyses. The meta-analytic results show that insecure attachment acts as a general vulnerability factor for the development of mental disorder. The distribution of Adult Attachment Interview classifications in these violent, personality-disordered patients significantly differed from non-violent patients. In particular there was an over-representation of individuals with Dismissing and Cannot Classify states of mind and an under-representation of patients who were Unresolved for loss and trauma. Additionally the violent personality-disordered patients had an impaired capacity to mentalize as evidenced by their low level of reflective functioning; especially patients with Dismissing attachments. This deficit is seen as a critical mediating mechanism between Dismissing attachment states of mind and violent behaviour. No one attachment measure predicted change across the outcome measures. However patients with Dismissing and Cannot Classify attachment representations improved in terms of the frequency and severity of their violent and aggressive behaviour. Patients with Preoccupied states of mind made the least progress. The results suggest that these particular attachment states of mind are predictive of change in the violent behavioural trajectory of these patients.
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Cruddace, Susan Ann. "Attention deficits in children with reading disorder, movement disorder or both." Thesis, University of Reading, 2004. http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.408093.
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Brown, Alan L. "Development and evaluation of a program designed to apply attachment disorder principles to the spiritual realm." Theological Research Exchange Network (TREN), 2008. http://www.tren.com/search.cfm?p001-1243.
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