Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria

Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria - A Parent's Guide
By Kelly Young

Does your child fall apart after criticism, take things deeply to heart, or seem devastated by even small mistakes?

For some neurodiverse children and teens, rejection does not just feel upsetting, it feels unbearable. A change in tone, a correction, a friendship wobble, or the fear of getting something wrong can trigger shame, shutdown, rage, panic, or complete emotional overwhelm.

Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria - A Parent's Guide is a compassionate, practical introduction for parents, carers, and professionals supporting children with ADHD, autism, and other neurodiverse profiles.

Written by neurodiversity coach, consultant, and parent Kelly Young, this accessible guide helps you understand what Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria really is, why it happens, and how to respond in ways that build safety rather than shame.

Inside, you will learn how to:

• recognise the signs of RSD in children and teens
• understand why rejection sensitivity is often mistaken for bad behaviour, defiance, or overreaction
• respond to shutdowns, rage, avoidance, and emotional overwhelm with greater calm and confidence
• reduce shame and build emotional safety at home
• support your child's self-worth, resilience, and confidence
• break cycles of criticism, pressure, and fear that can be passed down through families

This is a warm, parent-friendly introductory guide designed to help you better understand what is underneath the behaviour, and how to support your child in a way that helps them feel safe, seen, and good enough.

Perfect for parents, carers, teachers, and professionals who want a clearer understanding of rejection sensitivity in neurodiverse children and teens.