Conduct disorder is a behavioral condition diagnosed in childhood when a child consistently displays aggressive, deceptive, or rule-breaking behaviors. These behaviors can interfere with school performance, strain relationships with family and friends, and may lead to conflicts with authority figures.
Conduct disorder can range from mild to severe, depending on the behaviors a person exhibits. Diagnosis should be made by a psychologist or psychiatrist so that appropriate treatment can begin, which may include therapy and, in some cases, medication.
Although conduct disorder is usually diagnosed during childhood or adolescence, it can also be identified from age 18 onward. In adults, the condition is referred to as antisocial personality disorder, which is characterized by disregard for and frequent violation of the rights of others.
Main symptoms
The main symptoms that may indicate conduct disorder include:
-
Lack of empathy and concern for others.
-
Rebellious and defiant behavior.
-
Manipulation and frequent lying.
-
Frequently blaming other people.
-
Low frustration tolerance, often with episodes of irritability.
-
Aggressiveness.
-
Threatening behavior, which may include starting fights, for example.
-
Frequently running away from home.
-
Theft and/or robbery.
-
Destruction of property and vandalism.
-
Cruel behavior toward animals or people.
According to the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, children and teens with conduct disorder often have significant difficulty following rules, respecting others’ rights, showing empathy, and behaving in socially acceptable ways.
Because these behaviors differ from what is typically expected for a child, it is important to schedule an evaluation with a psychologist or psychiatrist as soon as concerning behaviors appear. This helps the professional assess the situation and determine whether the symptoms are due to conduct disorder or another psychological or developmental condition.
Possible causes
The exact cause of conduct disorder is not fully understood, but it is believed to result from a combination of several factors, including:
1. Genetics
Conduct disorder may be associated with hereditary genetic factors and is more common in children and adolescents whose parents have the condition or another mental health disorder, such as a mood or anxiety disorder, personality disorder, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), or alcohol use disorder.
2. Environmental factors
Environmental factors such as inconsistent family structure, parental conflict, lack of discipline, exposure to physical or verbal aggression, domestic violence, or a family history of substance abuse may affect judgment and problem-solving skills, increasing the risk of developing conduct disorder.
In addition, low socioeconomic status may cause financial and social stress for parents and limit effective parenting, which may also contribute to the development of conduct disorder.
3. Biological factors
Some studies suggest that injuries, damage, or changes in electrical activity in the frontal lobe of the brain, which is the area that regulates cognitive skills such as problem-solving, memory, and emotions, may contribute to aggression and to the development of conduct disorder.
Other health conditions, such as ADHD, learning disorders, depression, and anxiety disorders, as well as the use of illicit drugs, also appear to increase the risk of developing conduct disorder.
Treatment options
Based on guidance from the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, treatment may include therapy, and in some cases medication, with earlier recognition and intervention offering the best chance of improvement.
During therapy, the psychologist or psychiatrist assesses the behaviors to identify their possible causes and understand what may be influencing them.
In some cases, the psychiatrist may recommend medications such as mood stabilizers, antidepressants, and antipsychotics, which may help improve self-control and reduce conduct disorder symptoms.
If conduct disorder is considered severe and the person poses a risk to others, referral to a treatment center may be recommended so the behavior can be addressed appropriately and the disorder can be better managed.