Reactive Attachment Disorder and academic success: A multi-systemic approach

Children's experiences with their caregivers can greatly influence their development on multiple levels. This project examined Reactive Attachment Disorder as a result of pathogenic care in early childhood and its subsequent effects on academic success. The project provided an analysis of relevant literature on the personal and developmental impacts of RAD that challenge the likelihood for academic success. A multi-systemic approach to helping children achieve social and academic success despite the pessimistic prognosis was provided. Teachers, parents and children were all considered essential components to successful implementation of this approach. The project concluded with a discussion of the strengths and limitations of the proposed multi-systemic approach, as well as suggestions for future research on the disorder.