Conduct Disorder
Conduct Disorder Causes
Genetic and environmental elements in addition to other factors contribute to the development of the disorder. Some causes are also rooted to be associated with past history of being rejected by either peers or family.
Conduct Disorder Definition
Conduct disorder is the most severe psychiatric disorder usually affecting children and adolescents involving persistent antisocial behavior violating the rights of others; characterized by activities such as stealing, truancy, substance abuse, and vandalism. These behavior patterns are usually exhibited at home, school, and even in social functions and causes significant impairment the family, social, and academic performance of the child or adolescent.
Conduct Disorder Diagnosis
Observation of the child, discussion with the child and family, use of structured diagnostic interviews, and history can help in diagnosing conduct disorder.
Conduct Disorder Symptoms and Signs
Violent and confrontational behavior causing harm to other individuals or animals; behavior includes bullying or intimidating others, which usually results to fights. Destructive conduct resulting to damage or loss of property example includes fire setting or intentional damage to the property of others. Committing acts of deceit like theft or breaking into someone's house. Violating serious prohibitions such as staying out late at night when not allowed or always being absent in school without valid reasons.
Conduct Disorder Treatment
Functional family and multi-systemic therapies and cognitive behavioral therapy focused on anger management are considered as effective treatment approaches to conduct disorder.