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Attachment and callous‐unemotional traits in children with early‐onset conduct problems
Author(s) -
Pasalich Dave S.,
Dadds Mark R.,
Hawes David J.,
Brennan John
Publication year - 2012
Publication title -
journal of child psychology and psychiatry
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 3.652
H-Index - 211
eISSN - 1469-7610
pISSN - 0021-9630
DOI - 10.1111/j.1469-7610.2012.02544.x
Subject(s) - psychology , conduct disorder , developmental psychology
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.