There are countless lists and checklists available from a variety of sources, many of which are linked at the bottom of this page. Generally speaking…
Children who are considered “at risk” for Attachment Disorder:
- Children who have been abandoned
- Children who have been abused (physical, sexual or emotional)
- Children who have been neglected.
- Children who have experienced unmitigated pain.
- Children who have experienced numerous medical procedures, especially at a young age (this includes premies).
- Children who have been separated from their primary caregiver for any reason at an early age.
- Children who move repeatedly from foster homes or temporary placements.
- Children who have neurological disabilities that impair their ability to perceive nurturing.
- Children who have experienced or witnessed trauma, especially at a young age.
- Children who were in institutions, such as international orphanages.
Behaviors Associated with Attachment Impairment:
- Unable to participate in a reciprocal relationship As an infant, doesn’t respond to parent or attempt to mirror.
- As an infant, looks away when being nurtured, pushes away when being held.
- As a toddler, doesn’t seek parent for comfort when distressed
- Seems to be sending mixed signals.
- Seems unaware, or uncaring, about others’ feelings, especially those of family members/caregivers.
- Indiscriminately familiar with strangers Has no stranger danger, when age appropriate
- “Mom shops” by courting the attention of other adults
- Superficially charming, especially to those he doesn’t know well
- Lack of eye contact
- Hypervigilance, which sometimes appears as hyperactivity or lack of attention.
- Extreme control problems Obsessive behaviors
- Melts down at changes in plans, schedule, routine
- Demanding
- Sneaky behaviors; passively exerting control
- Lack of cause & effect thinking
- Poor impulse control
- Rage (anger out of proportion with the situation)
- Destructive, dangerous behaviors Property damage
- Self-injury
- Violence
- Cruelty to animals
- Firesetting
- Poor conscience development Shows no remorse
- Nonsensical lying
- Always blaming others
- Entire family seems to negatively interact Parents appear angry, tired, either overly reactive to what the child does; or totally disconnected from the child.
- Siblings exhibit problems of anger, fear, depression