- Aggressive behavior
- Destructive behavior
- Deceitful behavior
- Violation of rules
- Aggression towards animals
- Destruction of property
- Lying or stealing
Conduct disorder is a serious behavioral and emotional disorder that can occur in children and teens. This disorder is characterized by having great difficulty in following rules, respecting the rights of others, showing empathy, and behaving in a socially acceptable way.
Conduct disorder is diagnosed when children or adolescents display a pattern of disruptive and violent behavior and have problems following rules. It is long-lasting and goes against the accepted norms of behavior.
The global prevalence of conduct disorder based on a study conducted in 35 countries is 8%, including 7% in females and 11% in males.
Conduct disorder usually stops or resolves during early adulthood, but in about one third of the cases, it persists.
It is important to seek help as soon as you notice your child displaying symptoms of conduct disorder. Children or adolescents with conduct disorder are at risk of developing other mental disorders if left untreated like antisocial disorder, anxiety disorders, and substance use disorders.
Conduct disorder treatment could include psychotherapy and medication. Psychotherapy aims to help the child learn to express and control anger in more appropriate ways. Medication could be used to treat some of the distressing symptoms and any other mental illnesses that might be present such as ADHD or major depression.