Conduct Disorder

What is conduct disorder?

A childhood/adolescent disorder characterized by a persistent pattern of violating the rights of others or societal norms.

What age group does conduct disorder occur in?

Childhood or adolescence

What behaviors define conduct disorder?

• Aggression toward people/animals

• Destruction of property

• Deceit/theft

• Serious rule violations

What are examples of aggression in conduct disorder?

• Bullying

• Fighting

• Cruelty to animals

• Forced sexual activity

What are examples of property destruction in conduct disorder?

• Fire-setting

• Vandalism

What are examples of deceit/theft in conduct disorder?

• Breaking into property

• Lying

• Stealing

What are examples of serious rule violations in conduct disorder?

• Truancy

• Running away

• Staying out overnight

What is required for conduct disorder diagnosis?

Persistent behavior violating rights or norms for ≥12 months with impairment.

What is childhood-onset conduct disorder?

Symptoms begin before age 10

What is adolescent-onset conduct disorder?

Symptoms begin after age 10

What risk factors are associated with conduct disorder?

• Family conflict

• Abuse

• Neglect

• Parental criminality

• Substance use

• History of ADHD or ODD

What comorbid conditions are common in conduct disorder?

• ADHD

• Oppositional defiant disorder

• Substance use

• Mood disorders

What medical conditions can mimic conduct disorder?

• Autism

• Intellectual disability

• Psychotic disorders

• Trauma-related disorders

What differentiates conduct disorder from oppositional defiant disorder?

Conduct disorder involves aggression, property destruction, and violation of rights

What differentiates conduct disorder from antisocial personality disorder?

Conduct disorder occurs before age 18

What differentiates conduct disorder from ADHD?

ADHD involves inattention and impulsivity

What differentiates conduct disorder from intermittent explosive disorder?

Conduct disorder includes planned aggression

What complications can occur from untreated conduct disorder?

• Legal problems

• School failure

• Substance use

• Injury

• Progression to antisocial personality disorder

What is the first-line treatment for conduct disorder?

Psychotherapy and behavioral interventions

What behavioral therapies treat conduct disorder?

• CBT

• Parent management training

• Multisystemic therapy

What school interventions help conduct disorder?

• Structured environment

• Behavioral plans

• Close supervision

• Academic support

What medications may help conduct disorder symptoms?

• Stimulants (if ADHD)

• SSRIs (if mood/anxiety)

• Antipsychotics (for severe aggression)

What lifestyle modifications help conduct disorder?

• Consistent routines

• Positive reinforcement

• Avoiding high-risk peers

What safety assessments are important in conduct disorder?

• Violence risk

• Weapon access

• Substance use

• Suicidal or homicidal ideation

What is the prognosis of treated conduct disorder?

Improved functioning with early intervention and family involvement.

What is the prognosis of untreated conduct disorder?

High risk of criminal behavior, substance use, and antisocial personality disorder.

What is the classic triad of conduct disorder?

• Aggression

• Destruction of property

• Violation of rules/rights

What symptom cluster strongly suggests conduct disorder?

• Bullying

• Fighting

• Stealing

• Fire-setting

What behavior cluster strongly suggests severe conduct disorder?

• Cruelty to animals

• Forced sexual activity

• Weapon use