Is ADHD Caused by Trauma Like RAD?

PostedAugust 29, 2025

UpdatedSeptember 8, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

Author: Avery Lombardi, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

ADHD and trauma-like RAD both involve significant behavioural and emotional challenges, but their causes are fundamentally different, particularly when it comes to trauma.

ADHD Causes

ADHD is not typically caused by trauma. Instead, it is considered a neurodevelopmental disorder with strong genetic and biological factors. While environmental influences like prenatal exposure to toxins or early childhood stress can play a role, ADHD is primarily linked to brain function and genetic predispositions. The disorder affects attention, impulse control, and hyperactivity, driven by differences in the brain’s wiring and neurotransmitter activity, particularly dopamine.

RAD Causes

In contrast, RAD is directly caused by trauma-related experiences, particularly early emotional neglect or abuse. RAD arises when a child is unable to form secure attachments to caregivers, leading to difficulties with trust and emotional regulation. The trauma experienced in infancy or early childhood, especially in cases of inconsistent caregiving, disrupts the child’s ability to develop healthy emotional bonds.

Trauma-Related ADHD vs RAD

While trauma can exacerbate ADHD symptoms, it is not the root cause of ADHD. RAD, however, is a direct result of attachment issues stemming from early trauma and neglect. Understanding these distinctions is key to providing appropriate treatment for each condition.

In conclusion, ADHD and trauma-like RAD both involve different behavioural and emotional challenges. It is unlikely for ADHD to be caused by trauma whereas RAD is directly caused by trauma-related experiences.

Visit providers like ADHD Certify for personal consultations and expert guidance tailored to your unique situation.

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Differential Diagnosis of ADHD.

Avery Lombardi, MSc

Author

Avery Lombardi is a clinical psychologist with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and a Bachelor’s in Psychology. She has professional experience in psychological assessment, evidence-based therapy, and research, working with both child and adult populations. Avery has provided clinical services in hospital, educational, and community settings, delivering interventions such as CBT, DBT, and tailored treatment plans for conditions including anxiety, depression, and developmental disorders. She has also contributed to research on self-stigma, self-esteem, and medication adherence in psychotic patients, and has created educational content on ADHD, treatment options, and daily coping strategies.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the author's privacy.

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Reviewer

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez is a UK-trained physician with an MBBS and experience in general surgery, cardiology, internal medicine, gynecology, intensive care, and emergency medicine. She has managed critically ill patients, stabilised acute trauma cases, and provided comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care. In psychiatry, Dr. Fernandez has worked with psychotic, mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, applying evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based therapies. Her skills span patient assessment, treatment planning, and the integration of digital health solutions to support mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the reviewer's privacy.