ERIC Number: EJ972813
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2012-Aug
Pages: 8
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-0021-9630
EISSN: N/A
Attachment and Callous-Unemotional Traits in Children with Early-Onset Conduct Problems
Pasalich, Dave S.; Dadds, Mark R.; Hawes, David J.; Brennan, John
Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry, v53 n8 p838-845 Aug 2012
Background: Antisocial children with callous-unemotional (CU) traits appear to be disconnected from other people's emotions; although little is known about their experience of the parent-child emotional bond. This study examined parent-child attachment relationships and levels of CU traits in conduct-problem children. Method: Attachment classifications in boys (M = 6.31 years) with disruptive behaviour disorders were assessed using the Manchester Child Attachment Story Task. Multiple informants rated children's CU traits. Results: Independent of severity of conduct problems, high levels of CU traits were associated with more insecure attachment; specifically, disorganised attachment representations; however, CU traits were not associated with avoidant representations. Conclusions: Among conduct-problem children, those higher on CU traits appear to be at increased risk of experiencing disruptions in parent-child attachment relationships; attachment may be an important area for treatment and prevention efforts for CU traits in young children.
Descriptors: Prevention, Attachment Behavior, Parents, Emotional Response, Symptoms (Individual Disorders), Children, Males, Severity (of Disability), Behavior Problems, Parent Child Relationship
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Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: N/A
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A