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Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Mental Health

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Open Access 01-12-2014 | Research

Disturbances in attachment: inhibited and disinhibited symptoms in foster children

Authors: Caroline S Jonkman, Mirjam Oosterman, Carlo Schuengel, Eva A Bolle, Frits Boer, Ramon JL Lindauer

Published in: Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Mental Health | Issue 1/2014

Abstract

Background

Previous DSM-versions recognized an inhibited and a disinhibited subtype of the Reactive Attachment Disorder (RAD). The current DSM-5 distinguishes two different disorders, instead of two subtypes of RAD. This study examined whether a split-up of the subtypes is valid.

Method

In 126 foster children, attachment disorder symptoms were assessed with the Disturbances of Attachment Interview. Forms of pathogenic care were identified based on dossier analyses. Associations between symptoms of attachment disorder with internalizing and externalizing problems (Child Behavior Checklist and Teacher Report Form) were examined.

Results

Omnibus tests showed no significant association between type of symptoms and type of pathogenic care. Exploratory analyses did reveal an univariate association between disinhibited symptoms and history of physical abuse. Disinhibited symptoms were associated with more internalizing and externalizing problems (d’s < 0.50).

Conclusion

The distinction of inhibited and disinhibited subtypes of RAD seems valid regarding their emotional and behavioral correlations. Whereas inhibited symptoms lack a correlation, disinhibited symptoms seem to have an externalizing and internalizing correlation.

Trial registration

NTR1747

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Title: Disturbances in attachment: inhibited and disinhibited symptoms in foster children
Authors: Caroline S Jonkman
Mirjam Oosterman
Carlo Schuengel
Eva A Bolle
Frits Boer
Ramon JL Lindauer
Publication date: 01-12-2014
Publisher: BioMed Central
Published in: Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Mental Health / Issue 1/2014
Electronic ISSN: 1753-2000
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/1753-2000-8-21

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Disturbances in attachment: inhibited and disinhibited symptoms in foster children

Abstract

Background

Method

Results

Conclusion

Trial registration

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Background

Method

Results

Conclusion

Trial registration

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