Attachment Theory and Research: Applications and Misapplications in Clinical Practice (Members)

Webinar Overview:

Attachment problems and“attachment therapy” are often discussed in applied clinical settings, and are particularly prominent among services for maltreated and/or adopted children. These terms are not, however, widely discussed in academic research or settings. There are multiple reasons for this disconnect, many of which will be discussed during this presentation. A basic introduction to attachment theory and research will provided before examining empirically sound applications to clinical practice. Specifically, a brief history of Reactive Attachment Disorder (RAD) will be provided, including revisions of the RAD criteria in the DSM-5. A developmental conceptualization of the role of attachment in the etiology of emotional and behavioral concerns of children will be emphasized. This background will form the basis for providing empirically-derived attachment-based treatment recommendations. A focus will be on understanding the inter- section of attachment theory and currently recognized evidence-based treatments.

Learning Objectives

1.       Participants will analyze how current theory and research on attachment can inform clinical practice.

2.      Participants will evaluate changes to diagnostic nomenclature and how those changes impact clinical practice.

3.      Participants will analyze currently available evidence-based treatments from an attachment perspective.

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About the Speaker

Brian Allen, PsyD, is a clinical psychologist who currently serves as the Director of Mental Health Services at the Penn State Children’s Hospital’s Center for the Protection of Children. He is also an Assistant Professor of Pediatrics and Psychiatry in the Penn State College of Medicine. Dr. Allen conducts research on the developmental impact of childhood trauma and maltreatment, the role of attachment processes in treatment, children with problematic sexual behavior, and the implementation of evidence-based treatments. To date, he has published over 30 scientific papers in peer-reviewed journals, is co-editor of the book Treating Traumatized Children: A Casebook of Evidence-based Therapies, and serves on the editorial board of multiple scientific journals.