Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors

Adolescent conduct disorder is a type of problem with behavior in children older than 10 years of age. A person with this disorder typically does things that are socially unacceptable. The person also constantly violates the rights of others.

What are the causes and risks of the condition?

Adolescents who have been victim of child abuse or neglect are at a much higher risk for developing a conduct disorder. Biological factors may contribute as well. For example, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder often occurs in a child with a conduct disorder. Other factors include being poor and being raised in a chaotic home environment.

Symptoms & Signs

What are the signs and symptoms of the condition?

Typical, but unacceptable, behaviors in an adolescent with conduct disorder include:

Diagnosis & Tests

How is the condition diagnosed?

A conduct disorder is diagnosed by a doctor or a mental health care provider. A full psychological and social history will be taken. Also, a complete physical exam should be done to see if there are any medical conditions that could be adding to the behavior problems.

Prevention & Expectations

What can be done to prevent the condition?

A nurturing home environment is the best prevention for conduct disorders in adolescents. Children from homes with a good balance of love and discipline are less likely to develop this disorder than are those from abusive, permissive, or neglectful homes.

What are the long-term effects of the condition?

Children with this disorder are at risk for developing a personality disorder. Serious problems in school and with the law often develop as well.

What are the risks to others?

Because children with this disorder tend to be aggressive, they may cause harm to others.

Treatment & Monitoring

What are the treatments for the condition?

Treatment is aimed at helping the child learn to deal with his or her emotions and impulses. It is important that the child have a predictable, secure, and nurturing environment. Parents need to see to it that the child has reasonable limits set. The child needs to know what is expected of him and what is okay and not okay to do.

Also, the child's school may set up a plan for special education services. Parents need to work closely with the school.

Counseling is needed for the child to help him deal with self-esteem, mood, anger control, and interpersonal problems. This includes helping the child understand what may be causing the behavior. It also includes teaching the child coping skills and ways to change his or her behavior.