Is there an adult form of separation anxiety disorder? A brief clinical report

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this clinical report is to investigate whether symptoms of separation anxiety disorder can occur in adulthood.

Clinical picture: Three cases are described to illustrate that adults may experience: wide-ranging separation anxiety symptoms, such as extreme anxiety and fear, when separated from major attachment figures; avoidance of being alone; and fears that harm will befall those close to them. Symptoms of panic appeared to be secondary to separation anxiety, and none of the patients fulfilled criteria for dependent personality disorder.

Treatment: Group cognitive behavioural treatment focusing on preventing panic attacks and generalised anxiety did not appear to have an impact on core separation anxiety symptoms.

Outcome: Exacerbations of separation anxiety appeared to be closely linked to actual or threatened ruptures to primary bonds.

Conclusions: Separation anxiety disorder may be a neglected diagnosis in adulthood. Formal nosological systems such as the DSM may need to be revised to incorporate adult manifestations of the disorder.