Wow, it sounds like you are having a rough go of it. Was he displaying these behaviours before his biological mom died? How old was he when passed? Was it under violent circumstances? Is it possible there was abuse in his life prior to his mother dying? If not, it probably isn't RAD. RAD occurs when there is severe neglect and/or abuse on a child early in his or her development.
Rough Time
cjnh2,
Wow, it sounds like you are having a rough go of it. Was he displaying these behaviours before his biological mom died? How old was he when passed? Was it under violent circumstances? Is it possible there was abuse in his life prior to his mother dying? If not, it probably isn't RAD. RAD occurs when there is severe neglect and/or abuse on a child early in his or her development.
Adoptive Families has a good article on just this subject: http://www.adoptivefamilies.com/articles.php?aid=40
The "Child and Adolescent Bipolar Foundation" also has resources that you might find helpful: http://www.bpkids.org/
I'll keep you in my thoughts and prayers. Good luck and if you feel a desire to keep us informed, please do.
Best,
MatthewS