Parental Attachment and Maladaptive Behavior in Children with Emotional and Behavioral Disorders

Abstract

Abstract. Children with emotional and behavioral disorders (EBD) often display maladaptive behavior that deviates from social norms. This study analyzes the relationship between parental attachment and maladaptive behavior among children with EBD at the Banda Aceh Special Child Development Institution (LPKA). A qualitative case study was conducted through in-depth interviews with 55 purposively selected children, supported by observation and document review. Thematic analysis showed that 81.8% of the children came from economically disadvantaged families and 58.2% experienced disharmonious parenting marked by chronic conflict, broken homes, and emotional neglect. Insecure attachment was dominant: 58.2% felt misunderstood by their families and 40% sought support from non-parental figures. The main legal case was sexual relations reported as rape (45.5%), followed by property crime. Maladaptive behavior reflects dysfunction in attachment and family systems, indicating the need for attachment-focused rehabilitation, economic support, and restorative approaches.

Keywords: developmental psychology, parental attachment, parenting