Disinhibited social engagement disorder (DSED) is a psychiatric condition found in children who were neglected, abused, or experienced adverse early childhood experiences. This disorder, formerly known as reactive attachment disorder, is characterized by a child’s unusually friendly behavior and willingness to interact or go to a wholly unknown adult without hesitation. Understanding DSED is essential to improving the life quality of affected children and offering them the right support.
Symptoms of Disinhibited Social Engagement Disorder
Children with disinhibited social engagement disorder tend to express affection towards unfamiliar adults indiscriminately. These children often lack normal caution and hesitation in situations involving close contact or interaction with unfamiliar adults. Other symptoms of DSED include:
- Showing minimal to no reticence in going off with an unknown adult
- Willingness to converse about personal information with a stranger
- Demonstrating overly familiar verbal or physical behavior
- Not checking back with an adult caregiver after venturing away
Causes of Disinhibited Social Engagement Disorder
DSED generally develops in children who have experienced severe social neglect or deprivation, including limited opportunities to form stable, reciprocal relationships with adult caregivers. This disorder is commonly found among children who have been institutionalized or moved between multiple foster homes. Also, children with this disorder may have had parents who were significantly impaired or unavailable.
Treatment and Management of Disinhibited Social Engagement Disorder
Treatment for DSED primarily involves creating a stable, healthy, and nurturing environment for the child. The main goal is to develop a strong attachment with at least one primary caregiver. This requires consistent, predictable, and caring interactions. Techniques used for therapy may include play therapy, family therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and the use of medications in rare cases.
Conclusion
If left untreated, disinhibited social engagement disorder can have long-term negative effects on a child’s social and emotional development. Therefore, it is vital for individuals who interact with children to understand the symptoms and signs of this disorder to ensure timely intervention and manage the disorder effectively. The prognosis for children with DSED can be drastically improved if caught early and treated with suitable behavioral therapies and an adoption of stable, predictable, and caring relationships.
FAQs
What causes disinhibited social engagement disorder?
DSED usually develops in children due to severe social neglect or deprivation. It often occurs in children who have been institutionalized or kept in numerous foster care houses.
How is disinhibited social engagement disorder treated?
Treatment for DSED involves creating a stable, nurturing, and caring environment for the child. It may include therapies such as play therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and family therapy.
Can disinhibited social engagement disorder be cured?
With early intervention and consistent therapeutic support, children with DSED can experience significant improvement. The focus is on helping the child form stable, reciprocal relationships with caregivers.
What are some symptoms of disinhibited social engagement disorder?
Children with DSED often show no hesitation in interacting with strangers. They may be overly friendly and can easily go off with an unknown adult. These children also do not tend to seek comfort from familiar adults in times of stress.
How does disinhibited social engagement disorder affect a child’s life?
DSED can impact a child’s social and emotional development if not addressed. It may lead to inappropriate behaviors, struggle with peer relationships, and difficulties following social norms.
