It can also be due to the child having multiple care givers, thus preventing them from making the appropriate bonds. The risk of neglect to the infant or child increases with isolation, lack of parenting skills, teen parents, or a caregiver who is mentally retarded. Frequent changes in care givers is another cause of reactive attachment disorder.
Early recognition is very important for the child.
Once a parent is identified as being at high risk for neglect, parenting skills should be taught. The patient should be followed by either a social worker or doctor to make sure the child's needs are being met. First, the priority of treatment is to make sure the child is in a safe environment. Once that has been established, the next step is to alter the relationship between the caregiver and the child. This is done by teaching the caregiver parenting skills.