Does My Child Have Conduct Disorder?

Does your child show aggressive behavior (i.e., behaviors that threaten or cause physical harm, including fighting, bullying, being cruel to others/animals, and forcing another into sexual activity)?

Does your child show destructive behavior (i.e., intentional destruction of property including arson and vandalism)?

Does your child show deceitful behavior (e.g., repeated lying, shoplifting, or stealing)?

Does your child violate rules (e.g., running away, skipping school, or being sexually active at a very young age)?

Based on your answers, it seems unlikely that your child has conduct disorder. Conduct disorder involves behavioral and emotional problems that begin during childhood or adolescence. Children with the disorder have a hard time behaving in a socially acceptable way. They may be aggressive, destructive, and violate others’ rights. These children are usually perceived as delinquent, but others may forget that they are likely to have a mental illness. Children may appear tough and confident, however, children with conduct disorder are often very insecure and believe that other people are being threatening toward them.

Based on your answers, your child may be displaying one or two signs related to conduct disorder. It may be important to seek medical help for your child’s symptoms. Children who suffer from conduct disorder are often hard to control, and they act impulsively without considering other people’s feelings.

Unfortunately, your child may be displaying the symptoms typically seen among individuals who have conduct disorder. It may be of high importance to seek medical support. Children with the disorder have a hard time behaving in a socially acceptable way. They may be aggressive, destructive, and violate others’ rights. Treatment for conduct disorder includes behavior therapy or talk therapy to teach your child how to express his or her emotions appropriately. A mental health professional will also teach parents how to manage the child’s condition. Early treatment may slow the progression of the condition or may even reduce the severity of the behavioral problems.