Characteristics and impairments in functioning of attachment disorder in clinically referred children

Abstract

Background

Significant abuse and maltreatment in early development can have a multitude of negative impacts. This can include Attachment Disorders (AD), characterized by inconsistencies in seeking support or being overly familiar toward random adults. ADs can result in higher rates of impairments in multiple domains of functioning and reduced positive affect.

Objective

The goal of this paper is to describe the characteristics of children and youth with a diagnosis of AD, among cases seeking mental health services.

Participants and setting

Assessment data for 20,234 treatment-seeking children and youth aged 4 to 18 were obtained from 68 mental health agencies from Ontario, Canada. 480 cases of children with AD were selected and matched 1:1.

Methods

Using the interRAI Child and Youth Mental Health instruments, differences between those with AD and those without, including family characteristics, functioning, rates of polyvictimization, behavioural and emotional difficulties as well as other signs and symptoms were examined.

Results

Children with AD ((M_age = 11.7; SD = 3.2; males = 58.7%) faced higher rates of unstable family situations and harmful behaviours compared to their matched pairs (M_age = 11.7; SD = 3.3; males = 58.7%). Mothers of children with AD were younger and more likely to misuse substances and face greater psychiatric challenges. Children with AD also experienced higher rates of polyvictimization and comorbidity with other major disorders.

Conclusions

These findings indicate the adverse effects of AD. Limitations and directions for future research are discussed.