Attachment Issues
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Definition
Attachment is an enduring and specific emotional bond that develops over time, between a child and caregiver. This bond is crucial for survival and the development of the child. Subsequent relationships and the ability to develop a sense of self, depend on this initial attachment.
Possible Issues
Attachment issues may include: withdrawn behaviour, overly clingy behaviour, refusal to accept physical comfort, indiscriminate attachment, sibling rivalry and jealousy, sleep disturbance, developmental regression, behavioural problems, school refusal and separation anxiety. Indiscriminate attachment, and avoidant or resistant behaviours are signs of difficulty in forming a secure bond between the child and caregiver.
Sibling Rivalry & Jealousy
The arrival of a new child in the family represents a challenge to the stability of the parent-child relationship. The older child may express his or her feelings with aggressive, resentful behaviour towards the new child.
Management involves a supportive and understanding approach. Preparation of the child before the arrival of a new child is important. Continual reassurance that the child is still loved and valued is important. If the older child has had attachment difficulties, then these insecurities may recur.
School refusal and separation anxiety
A child, who has previously experienced loss and insecurity may have difficulty separating from the caregiver. The child may believe that if they are separated from the adult, something serious will happen to harm the adult.
Management involves reassurance of the child, support by nurturing teaching staff and may require mental health referral.
General Management
Successful management of attachment issues involves the provision of stability, continuous availability, warmth and responsiveness to the needs of the child, in conjunction with the maintaining of firm boundaries for the child’s behaviour.
Mental health referral for the child-family unit is recommended.
Possible Referral Sources
Parentline 13 22 89
Child & Adolescent Mental Health Service (CAMHS) 9767 8274
