In this DVD series, therapists Margaret Blaustein, Alexandra Cook, Richard Kagan, Vivienne Roseby, and Thomas Young describe the impact of disrupted attachment on the ways that children see themselves and interact with others, and how adults can respond most effectively. They explore such topics as setting limits, avoiding power struggles, providing structure, and building a trusting relationship. Their observations are reinforced by the accounts of foster and adoptive parents, group home staff, and former foster children. The presenters emphasize the importance of understanding what drives children's behaviors, rather than simply reacting to them. They provide concrete suggestions for containing negative behaviors and improving adult-child interactions.

Understanding Children with Disrupted Attachment provides the framework for rest of the series; the other videos will be more effective if it is shown first.

Understanding Children With Disrupted Attachment

This introductory DVD explains the internal effects of disrupted attachment, and the behaviors that children lacking a "secure base" may display. Topics include the role of neglect, exposure to violence, and the reactive attachment disorder diagnosis (42 min.)

(This DVD is available individually or in a 2 disc set with Parenting, Caring or Treating. Or included, as shown here, as part of the complete 4 disc set.)

Parenting Children With Disrupted Attachment

Raising a child with disrupted attachment presents particular challenges to parents. This video examines such issues as providing a safe, structured environment, meeting children at their developmental level, and building trust. (45 min.)

Caring for Children With Disrupted Attachment

This program for childcare workers combines guidance from therapists with the insights of group home staff. Topics include rules and trust, de-escalation of negative behaviors, the role of touch, and working with birth families (42 min.)

Treating Children With Disrupted Attachment

This dvd focuses on such issues as building the therapeutic relationship, structuring sessions, and interrupting defensive play. It also explores the therapist's role as coach for foster and adoptive parents (43 min.)

Total Running Time 2 hrs. and 52 mins. Includes 4 DVDs, and Trainer's Guides

VHS version available by request