Children who have experienced trauma can develop attachment disorders, which make it difficult for them to build healthy relationships as they grow up. Some signs of attachment disorder include difficulty forming close emotional bonds, needing constant reassurance or acting as though they are afraid of rejection in a relationship. They may also be prone to bullying peers or act defiant toward their parents and teachers. These behaviors can be a sign of serious mental health problems, and people who experience them should seek treatment from a mental health professional.
Adults who experienced emotional trauma in childhood can also have trouble forming healthy relationships in their adult lives. They may have a difficult time trusting others, or they might display risky behaviors, such as sexual addiction or dangerous relationships. It’s important to find a mental health professional who can help an adult overcome attachment issues so they can lead a happier and healthier life.
The causes of attachment problems vary, and they can be due to biological, environmental or behavioral factors. For example, maternal depression symptoms during pregnancy can interfere with the formation of a secure bond between mother and child. The effects of maternal depression can last into the early postnatal period, and this can cause a child to develop an insecure attachment style.
A mental health professional can assess a person for a possible attachment disorder by conducting a physical exam and running lab tests to rule out any medical conditions that could be contributing to the person’s symptoms. They can then use the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders criteria for RAD or DSED to formally diagnose the condition.
Often, the most effective approach for treating attachment issues is psychotherapy, or talk therapy. This type of treatment teaches a person how to form healthy emotional bonds with others and how to manage their emotions in productive ways. It can also help them become more aware of their thoughts and behaviors, and how these influence their relationships with others.
In addition to talking therapy, it’s also important for someone with attachment difficulties to have consistent and loving boundaries. They need to know what kind of behavior is expected of them, and they need to understand that there will be consequences if they disobey the rules. It’s also essential that they have consistent routines and schedules to feel safe.
When discipline is necessary, it’s best to do so in a calm and matter-of-fact manner. It’s not good to punish a child when they are emotionally charged, as this can increase their feelings of anxiety and fear. Instead, it’s helpful to rely on positive reinforcement when they behave well and offer support when they struggle. They need to know that no matter what they do, you love them and are always there for them. It’s also important for them to hear these reassuring words repeatedly, so they can develop an internal sense of security and safety. This is essential for repairing damaged relationships.