Disinhibited Social Engagement Disorder (DSED) – Children

Disinhibited Social Engagement Disorder is another attachment-related condition in children exposed to neglect or inconsistent caregiving.

Disinhibited Social Engagement Disorder (DSED) – Children

Disinhibited Social Engagement Disorder is another attachment-related condition in children exposed to neglect or inconsistent caregiving. Unlike RAD, where children withdraw, children with DSED show overly familiar behavior with strangers—approaching, hugging, or going off with unfamiliar adults without hesitation. This lack of social boundaries can put children at risk of exploitation or harm. DSED reflects a disrupted sense of attachment and difficulty distinguishing between safe and unsafe relationships.

What constitutes DSED?

Child exhibits culturally inappropriate, overly familiar behavior with unfamiliar adults, not limited to impulsivity, with history of insufficient caregiving.

Symptoms and warning signs

  • Approaches and interacts with strangers without hesitation
  • Overly familiar physical or verbal behavior
  • Fails to check back with caregivers when exploring
  • Readily goes off with strangers
  • Difficulty forming selective, deep attachments

Causes and risk factors

  • Neglect, abuse, or institutional rearing
  • Frequent caregiver changes
  • Early deprivation of nurturing environments

Treatment approaches

  • Attachment-based therapy: helping children build healthy boundaries
  • Parent training: guiding caregivers to provide consistent responses
  • Play therapy: supporting emotional development
  • Safe, stable caregiving environment: essential for recovery

Why Act Center for Disinhibited Social Engagement Disorder (DSED) in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia?

Our experienced DSED therapists in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia offer specialized care to help children develop appropriate social boundaries and secure attachments.

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