CONDUCT DISORDER

Conduct Disorder (CD) is a behavioral and emotional disorder diagnosed in childhood or adolescence that involves a persistent pattern of violating societal norms, rules, and the rights of others. Individuals with conduct disorder often display aggressive, destructive, deceitful, or rule-breaking behaviors. The severity of these behaviors can range from mild to severe.

Common features and behaviors associated with Conduct Disorder include:

1. Aggression Toward People and Animals:

   • Bullying, threatening, or intimidating others.

   • Initiating physical fights.

   • Using weapons.

2. Destruction of Property:

   • Deliberately causing damage to property belonging to others.

3. Deceitfulness or Theft:

   • Lying, stealing, or breaking into houses, cars, or other premises.

4. Serious Violations of Rules:

   • Engaging in activities that are illegal for someone of that age (e.g., substance abuse).

5. Serious Violations of Rules:

   • Running away from home.

   • Truancy from school.

For a diagnosis of Conduct Disorder, these behaviors must occur persistently over time and significantly impact the individual's social, academic, or occupational functioning.

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Subtypes of Conduct Disorder:

1. Childhood-Onset Type:

   • CD symptoms appear before age 10.

2. Adolescent-Onset Type:

   • CD symptoms emerge during adolescence.

3. Unspecified Onset:

   • Age at onset is indeterminate or unknown.

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Causes and Risk Factors:

The exact cause of conduct disorder is not fully understood, and it likely results from a combination of genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological factors. Some common risk factors include a history of family instability, exposure to violence, inconsistent parenting, and genetic predisposition.

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Treatment:

Treatment for conduct disorder often involves a combination of therapeutic approaches, including:

1. Counseling and Psychotherapy:

   • Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is often used to address and modify negative thought patterns and behaviors.

2. Parental Training:

   • Teaching parents effective strategies for managing and disciplining their child.

3. School-Based Interventions:

   • Collaboration with teachers and school staff to create a supportive environment.

4. Medication:

   • In some cases, medication may be considered if coexisting conditions like ADHD or aggression are present.

Early intervention is crucial for better outcomes, and a comprehensive approach involving various professionals, including mental health specialists, educators, and parents, is often recommended.