ReAttach Protocol for Adoption and Foster CareBuilding Family Cohesion

Abstract

Due to global wars, food shortages, and natural disasters, the number of orphans worldwide is growing (1). These orphans have survived terrible circumstances but have lost their parents. In addition to providing safe shelter and basic needs for survival, providing a safe home to grow up in is essential. Foster families and parents who adopt these children do incredible work. However, at the same time, these newly blended families are dealing with older, traumatized children who are much more vulnerable than babies who are given up for adoption before their first birthday (2, 3, 4). The older children have an increased risk of later emotional problems (5).
ReAttach is a transdiagnostic intervention for children and adults with mental health problems. As a brief, not-trauma-focused family-intervention (6), ReAttach aims to optimize learning conditions and development. This paper describes how ReAttach can promote the mental health of adopted and foster children and increase their resilience, well-being, and personal growth. When used strategically, the applicability of ReAttach and ReAttach Specializations (Wiring Affect with ReAttach (7) and New Mind Creation (8) becomes even more attractive. Combining ReAttach to optimize learning conditions with tailored connecting interventions is an excellent opportunity to promote mental health and personal growth.