Ms. Holley is a first grade teacher who is concerned about one of her students, 6 year-old Kara Steel. Each time the class goes on a field trip, Kara leaves the class group and approaches strangers. It seems that Kara has a history of being placed in several different foster homes over the past 3 years. Which of the following diagnoses best explains Kara's behavior?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Kara's behavior of approaching strangers despite being in a group is an indication of disinhibited social engagement disorder, which is commonly seen in children who have experienced disruptions in their early caregiving relationships, such as being placed in foster care. Reactive attachment disorder (choice A) is also a possibility, but Kara's behavior is more consistent with disinhibited social engagement disorder. Acute stress disorder (choice C) and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (choice D) do not fully explain Kara's behavior.

Ms Holley Is a First Grade Teacher Who Is Concerned