Conduct disorder (CD) is a serious behavior problem that sometimes happens in children. Kids with this disorder often have trouble following rules and respecting others. This can show up in many ways.

For example, a child might often skip school or run away from home. They might also steal things or be mean to other people. These behaviors can happen one at a time or all together.

Causes

There are many different aspects which can cause conduct disorder. Some physicians believe it may be linked to a part of the brain called the frontal lobe. This part of the brain helps kids plan things, stay out of trouble, and learn from their mistakes.

A child’s natural personality, which can be passed down from their parents, can also play a part. Kids who have a harder time with their feelings or who are naturally more difficult might be more likely to have problems with their behavior.

A child’s home life and their friends can also make a difference. Kids who grow up in homes that are not organized or have lots of problems, or who have trouble making friends, might be more likely to develop this disorder. Growing up poor can also be a factor. All of these things together can change how kids act and how they get along with other people.

Whose Affected?

Conduct disorder is more common in boys than in girls. About 6-16% of boys and 2-9% of girls might have it. It's also more likely to be found in big cities than in the country.

Many children with conduct disorder also have other mental health problems, which can be part of the reason they have this disorder. In recent years, more and more kids have been diagnosed with it. In fact, a lot of the time a child is sent to a mental health professional, it's because they are showing aggressive behavior.

Most symptoms seen in children with conduct disorder also occur at times in children without this disorder. However, in children with conduct disorder, these symptoms occur more frequently and interfere with learning, school adjustment and, sometimes, with the child's relationships with others.

The following are the most common symptoms of conduct disorder. However, each child may experience symptoms differently. The four main groups of behaviors include the following:

Aggressive Conduct

Aggressive conduct causes or threatens physical harm to others and may include the following:

• Intimidating behavior
• Bullying
• Physical fights
• Cruelty to others or animals
• Use of a weapon(s)
• Forcing someone into sexual activity, rape, molestation

Destructive Conduct

Destructive conduct may include the following:

• Vandalism, intentional destruction to property
• Arson

Deceitfulness

Deceitful behavior may include the following:

• Lying
• Theft
• Shoplifting
• Delinquency

Violation of Rules

Violation of ordinary rules of conduct or age-appropriate norms which may include the following:

• Truancy (failure to attend school)
• Running away
• Pranks
• Mischief
• Very early sexual activity

The symptoms of conduct disorder may resemble other medical conditions or behavioral problems. Always consult your child's physician for a diagnosis.

Specific treatment for children with conduct disorders will be determined by your child's physician based on:

• Your child's age, overall health and medical history
• Extent of your child's symptoms
• Your child's tolerance for specific medications or therapies
• Expectations for the course of the condition
• Your opinion or preference

Treatment may include:

• Cognitive-behavioral approaches: The goal of cognitive-behavioral therapy is to improve problem solving skills, communication skills, impulse control and anger management skills.
• Family therapy: Family therapy is often focused on making changes within the family system, such as improving communication skills and family interactions.
• Peer group therapy: Peer group therapy is often focused on developing social skills and interpersonal skills.
• Medication: While not considered effective in treating conduct disorder, medication may be used if other symptoms or disorders are present and responsive to medication.