Attachment is the foundation of all human relationships, and it begins the moment a baby forms a bond with their caregiver. For some teens, this bond doesn’t develop as it should, leading to attachment disorders that affect how they connect to others. Understanding, diagnosing, and treating attachment disorders is key to helping teens build healthier relationships and emotional stability.
If your teen seems to struggle with trust, relationships, or managing emotions, they may have an attachment disorder. Knowing how to help a teenager with attachment disorder starts with learning the signs and seeking professional support to guide their healing. Our teen mental health treatment is here for you and your family.
Reactive Attachment Disorder in Teens
Reactive attachment disorder (RAD) occurs when a child’s early emotional needs for comfort, affection, and care are not consistently met. Teens with RAD may find it difficult to trust, build close relationships, or express emotions in healthy ways.
This condition often stems from childhood experiences like neglect, abuse, or frequently changing caregivers. Teens with reactive attachment disorder might feel intense fears of abandonment or rejection, but they may also seem emotionally distant or withdrawn. Some common signs of RAD include:
- Difficulty forming close emotional connections with peers or adults
- Avoidance of comfort or physical touch from caregivers
- Lack of empathy or trouble interpreting others’ emotions
- Outbursts of anger or frustration, especially when things feel out of their control
- Disorganized or defiant behavior, particularly in school or at home
The symptoms of reactive attachment disorder often create challenges in a teen’s daily life, affecting their emotional and social development. Without intervention, the effects of RAD can increase the risk of issues like depression, anxiety, or even personality disorders.
Disinhibited Social Engagement Disorder
While reactive attachment disorder is marked by emotional withdrawal, disinhibited social engagement disorder (DSED) often features the opposite behavior. Teens with DSED may be overly friendly or trusting toward strangers, behaving in ways that are socially inappropriate or unsafe.
This lack of boundaries can stem from early neglect, similar to RAD. However, instead of avoiding closeness, teens with DSED seek attention and connection in ways that may seem excessive or impulsive. They might struggle with risky behaviors, social anxiety, or feelings of rejection.
While DSED is less common than RAD, it’s still a challenging attachment disorder that requires specialized care and understanding to address.
How MCAW Treats Attachment Disorders
If your teen is showing signs of an attachment disorder, you may be wondering where to turn for help. At Massachusetts Center for Adolescent Wellness (MCAW), we offer compassionate and individualized treatment for attachment disorder in teens.
Attachment Therapy for Healing and Growth
Attachment therapy focuses on building or rebuilding the trust and safety that attachment disorders affect. Teens with RAD or DSED can work through past trauma with therapists who understand their unique needs. At MCAW, attachment therapy is designed to teach your teen healthy emotional connections and coping strategies for their relationships.
Family-Focused Therapy
Attachment disorders don’t just affect the individual; they impact the entire family. That’s why we emphasize family therapy sessions. These sessions allow you to work closely with your teen and our specialists to improve communication, resolve conflict, and create a supportive home environment. It’s a powerful way to strengthen your connection with your teen while helping them feel more secure.
Trauma-Informed Care
Many attachment disorders stem from trauma or instability in early life. MCAW takes a trauma-informed approach to RAD treatment, focusing on creating a safe, respectful space for your teen to explore and address their feelings. This approach helps teens feel supported as they develop healthier emotional responses.
Behavioral Strategies for Long-Term Success
Part of our program involves teaching practical strategies for handling difficult emotions and relationships. Whether it’s managing anger, building empathy, or navigating social settings, your teen will gain the tools they need to thrive beyond treatment.
How to Help a Teenager with Attachment Disorder
While professional treatment plays a critical role, your involvement as a parent or caregiver is equally important in your teen’s recovery. Here are some ways you can support your teen during treatment and at home:
Practice Patience and Understanding
Progress doesn’t happen overnight. Show your teen compassion, even on challenging days, and celebrate small victories along the way.
Be Consistent
Teens with attachment disorders thrive on stability. Establish routines and clear expectations to create a sense of safety and predictability.
Engage in Open Communication
Encourage your teen to talk about their feelings without fear of judgment. Listening can go a long way in building trust and showing them you care.
Reach Out for Help
Don’t hesitate to seek support for yourself as well. Parenting a teen with an attachment disorder can be overwhelming, and finding resources for your own well-being is key.
Call MCAW Now to Begin a Path Toward Healing
Living with reactive attachment disorder in teens or other attachment challenges is hard, but healing is possible. At MCAW, we’re here to provide the guidance, therapies, and support your family needs to create a brighter future. Together, we can help your teen develop stronger, healthier relationships and emotional resilience that lasts a lifetime.
If you’d like to learn more about reactive attachment disorder treatment or discuss our approach to helping teens heal, please contact us online or call 855.940.6229 today. You’re never alone in this process—we’re here to help your teen grow and succeed.
