Reactive Attachment Disorder

I am a 15 year old girl who was adopted at the age of 5 and I was wondering if it is possible for me to have RAD (reactive attachment disorder). I tend to be very clingy and I try pleasing many people because I don't want them to be disappointed in me. I have a very hard time when it comes to leaving people in my life behind. I am very aggressive at home and at school I tend to be passive. Is it possible for me to have a RAD and if I do what should I do about it?

Thanks!

Ben's Answer:

Yes, it is possible that you have RAD. Many people have "attachment issues" - even those that grew up in stable homes. Any lack of good bonding at an early age, or disrupted attachment to a parental figure at a young age, is likely to cause problems. If not RAD, then at least some fears of abandonment and issues with security or self-worth. There are many therapists now who work in regular psychotherapy from an "Attachment Model" of understanding emotional pain and relationship problems. That sort of therapist may be just the right thing to help you with these issues. Don't give up, there's lots of help out there if you know where to look.

Best wishes,
Ben