Understanding Attachment and Attachment Disorders: Theory, Evidence and Practice (Child and Adolescent Mental Health)

This book offers a thorough examination and discussion of the evidence on attachment, its influence on development, and attachment disorders. In Part One, the authors outline attachment theory, the influence of sensitive and insensitive caregiving and the applicability of attachment theory across cultures. Part Two presents the various instruments used to assess attachment and caregiving. Part Three outlines the influence of attachment security on the child's functioning. Part Four examines the poorly understood phenomenon of attachment disorder. Presenting the evidence of scientific research, the authors reveal how attachment disorders may be properly conceptualised. Referring to some of the wilder claims made about attachment disorder, they argue for a disciplined, scientific approach that is grounded in both attachment theory and the evidence base. The final part is an overview of evidence-based interventions designed to help individuals form secure attachments. Summarising the existing knowledge base in accessible language, this is a comprehensive reference book for professionals including social workers, psychologists, psychiatrists, teachers, lawyers and researchers. Foster and adoptive parents, indeed all parents, and students will also find it of interest. Acknowledgements. Preface. Part One: Introduction. 1. Overview of Conduct Disorder. 2. Young People With More Than One Disorder (Comorbidity). 3. Aeitology and Developmental Pathways. 4. Prevention. 5. Measuring and Assessing Problem Behaviour. 6. Services for Adolescents. Part Two: The Research Base - Techniques for Treating Conduct Disorder and Treatment Approaches for Young Offenders. 7. Individual Programmes. 8. Family and Parenting Interventions. 9. School-based Interventions. 10. Pharmacology. 11. Interventions for Young People Involved in Firesetting and Arson. 12. Other Treatments for Conduct Disorder. 13. Treatment Approaches for Young Offenders. 14. Summary of Key Issues. Appendix 1. Diagnostic Criteria for Conduct Disorder. Appendix 2. Useful Terms for Understanding and Assessing Research. Appendix 3. Research Strategy. Appendix 4. Critical Appraisal. Appendix 5. Resources. References. Subject index. Author index. About FOCUS.