What is a key characteristic of Reactive Attachment Disorder in children?

A key characteristic of Reactive Attachment Disorder (RAD) in children is the inability to seek comfort from caregivers. This disorder typically arises in the context of inadequate caregiving, where a child experiences a lack of stable attachments due to neglect or abuse. As a result, affected children often exhibit a marked disturbance in their ability to form emotional bonds and may not respond appropriately to comfort from caregivers. This detachment can lead to a range of difficulties in social and emotional development, impacting their ability to form secure relationships later in life.

The significance of this characteristic lies in its contrast to typical developmental behaviors where children actively seek support and comfort from trusted adults, especially in times of distress. In RAD, this fundamental need is impaired, making it a central element for diagnosis.