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Attachment disorganization in prepubertal children with severe emotional disturbance

G Goodman1, C R Pfeffer

  • 1Department of Psychiatry, Cornell University Medical College, White Plains, New York 10605, USA. gg94@columbia.edu

Bulletin of the Menninger Clinic
|November 12, 1998
PubMed

Insights

This study explores attachment disorganization in psychiatric inpatients, identifying four subtypes. Findings suggest these children, though diverse, exhibit subtle organizational patterns in their attachment.

Area of Science:

  • Developmental Psychology
  • Child Psychiatry
  • Attachment Theory

Background:

  • Attachment disorganization is a complex phenomenon observed in children with psychiatric conditions.
  • Understanding subtypes of attachment disorganization is crucial for targeted interventions.
  • The Attachment Story-Completion Task is utilized to assess attachment security.

Observation:

  • Four prepubertal psychiatric inpatients were studied to illustrate proposed subtypes of attachment disorganization.
  • The Attachment Story-Completion Task was administered to assess the quality of attachment security with primary caregivers.
  • Clinical vignettes detailing inpatient treatments were presented.

Findings:

  • Four distinct subtypes of attachment disorganization were identified in the studied children.
  • Children assessed with attachment disorganization represent a heterogeneous group.
  • Subtle patterns of organization were observed within this heterogeneous group.

Implications:

  • The findings suggest a need for nuanced diagnostic approaches to attachment disorganization.
  • Identifying specific subtypes can inform tailored therapeutic strategies for children.
  • Further research is warranted to validate and expand upon these proposed subtypes.

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