Disinhibited social engagement disorder (DSED) is an attachment disorder. It may make it difficult for children to form deep, meaningful connections to others. It’s one of two attachment disorders that affect children younger than 18 years — the other condition is reactive attachment disorder (RAD).
To be diagnosed with DSED, children must have at least two of the following symptoms to be diagnosed with DSED:
- intense excitement or a lack of inhibition over meeting or interacting with strangers or unfamiliar adults
- behaviours with strangers that are overly friendly, talkative, or physical and not age-appropriate or culturally acceptable
- willingness or desire to leave a safe place or situation with a stranger
- lack of desire or interest in checking in with a trusted adult prior to leaving a safe place, or in a situation that seems foreign, strange, or threatening
Children with DSED are at an increased risk of harm from others because of their willingness to connect with strangers. They have trouble forming loving connections with other children and adults.
*The information above is not a diagnostic tool, please seek the help of a qualified medical professional
Ref: American Psychiatric Association: Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Health Disorders, Fifth Edition, Arlington, VA, American Psychiatric Association, 2013.
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