What is Conduct Disorder

If your child frequently misbehaves, you may be wondering whether they’re just acting out or possibly dealing with conduct disorder. But what exactly is conduct disorder, and how can you tell if your child has it?

What is Conduct Disorder?

Conduct disorder is a mental health condition that leads to significant behavioral and emotional challenges, often involving a disregard for others. Those with conduct disorder may struggle to follow rules and meet societal expectations, and in some cases, may even exhibit violent behavior.

Common Symptoms of Conduct Disorder

Symptoms of conduct disorder tend to worsen with age, especially during adolescence, when individuals may engage in more risky or even illegal activities. Only a qualified professional can properly diagnose the condition, but some common behaviors associated with conduct disorder include:

– Aggressive actions (e.g., hitting, biting, kicking, pushing)

– Breaking curfew

– Bullying

– Cheating

– Starting fires (arson)

– Substance use (alcohol or drugs)

– Hurting animals

– Lying

– Manipulating others

– Picking fights

– Running away from home

– Skipping school

– Stealing

– Making threats

– Trespassing

– Vandalizing property

While many of these behaviors can occasionally appear in children as part of normal development, frequent or intense occurrences over an extended period could indicate conduct disorder. Those affected often struggle to express emotions or empathize with others. They may rarely show remorse and tend to blame others for their actions.

Seeking Help for Conduct Disorder

If you suspect your child may have conduct disorder, it’s essential to seek support from a qualified therapist who can assist with diagnosis and treatment. Our experienced team is here to help. With extensive experience working with children diagnosed with conduct disorder, we can provide the support your family needs. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and begin the path toward healing.