Conduct Disorder

You hear about all these different types of mental health diagnoses and some providers assume you are an expert.

It can be nerve wrecking especially when the diagnosis is for a loved one.

Have you ever heard of Conduct disorder?

The Child Mind Institute defines Conduct disorder as;

“a condition in which children and teenagers enjoy hurting people and they don’t care about other people’s feelings(2023)”.

This means that they struggle to have empathy and care for others.

There are many factors that contribute to the progression of this mental health disorder.

Like most mental health disorders there are strong genetic, environmental, and social components that interfere with its progression.

The diagnostic criteria for Conduct disorder are the following (APA, 2022):

A repetitive and persistent pattern of behavior- basic rights, societal norms or rules are violated. Manifested by the presence of at least 3 of the following 15 criteria in the past 12 months. Least one criterion present in the past 6 months Aggression to people and animals Often bullies, threatens, or intimidates others. Often initiates physical fights. Has used a weapon that can cause serious physical harm to others (e.g., a bat, brick, broken bottle, knife, gun). Has been physically cruel to people. Has been physically cruel to animals. Has stolen while confronting a victim (e.g., mugging, purse snatching, extortion, armed robbery). Has forced someone into sexual activity. Destruction of property Has deliberately engaged in fire setting with the intention of causing serious damage. Has deliberately destroyed others’ property (other than by fire setting). Deceitfulness or theft Has broken into someone else’s house, building, or car. Often lies to obtain goods or favors or to avoid obligations (i.e., “cons” others). Has stolen items of nontrivial value without confronting a victim (e.g., shoplifting, but without breaking and entering; forgery). Serious violations of rules Often stays out at night despite parental prohibitions, beginning before age 13 years. Has run away from home overnight at least twice while living in the parental or parental surrogate home, or once without returning for a lengthy period. Is often truant from school, beginning before age 13 years.

Disturbance in behavior causing impairment in social,academic, or occupational functioning.

18 years or older, criteria are not met for antisocial personality disorder

Specify: F91.1 Childhood – onset type. Shows at least one symptoms prior to age of 10 F91.2 Adolescent – onset type Symptoms appear after age of 10. F91.9 Unspecified – not enough information is available to diagnose. First symptom was before or after the age of 10.

Specify: with limited prosocial emotions: I. Lack of remorse or guilt II. Callous: Lack of empathy III. Unconcerned about performance VI. Shallow or deficient affect

Specify: Mild, Moderate, severe

Source: (APA, 2022) American Psychiatric Association. (2022). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders Dsm-5-Tr.

 

A youth diagnosed with this disorder is likely to display serious behavior problems

It can be extremely overwhelming for parents because their loved ones do not display empathy.

It can be a nerve wrecking diagnosis because some have been known to show aggression to people or animals.

Individuals with this disorder tend to be cruel to others.

There can be safety concerns, if the youth has one or more siblings.

The American Psychiatric Association reports that;

“About 40% of individuals who meet diagnostic criteria for conduct disorder, will later meet diagnostic criteria for antisocial personality disorder (APA, 2023)”.

It is important to take note of all the sudden behavioral changes that the youth may be experiencing. Conduct disorder is a serious condition, if left untreated youth can experience many issues.

Treatment

There are several different types of modalities used to treat this disorder.

For example, cognitive behavioral therapy can be used to teach how to problem solve, think critically and address their cognitive distortions.

Some providers may even prescribe medications to treat the symptoms of conduct disorder.

Like most mental health disorders, health care providers may recommend the use of both therapy and prescribed medications.

Family therapy has also shown great promise in understanding conduct disorder. Family therapy can improve the family’s relationship with one another. Especially to the youth who may be struggling to understand how their actions affect the family as whole.

Some providers may even recommend anger management depending on how the youth is expressing themselves.

Psychoeducation is always a great way to learn about recent diagnosis.

Talk to your provider about what exactly the diagnosis means. Ask if there are any community resources available for your family.

Do not be afraid to do some research on the American Psychiatric Association, Mayo clinic, or the American Counseling Association websites. Be cautious on websites you are reading because there are some that can misinform you. Always look at the references they provide and check if they are reputable.

Comorbidity

Conduct disorder can have comorbid (relatable) conditions.

According to the Verywell Mind website;

“children with conduct disorder can have other mental health issues such as: ADHD, Self-harm, Substance misuse, Depression and anxiety, Posttraumatic stress disorder, and learning disability (Morin, 2023)”.

The human mind is extremely sensitive to the environment.

In order for a youth to be successful, they must adhere to their treatment plan.

Parents and guardians; please do not forget to take care of yourselves as well.

As redundant as it may seem self care is essential, and you cannot forget to take care of yourself as well.

It wouldn’t hurt to even see a therapist for yourself.

 

This post was written by Jasmine P., and published by Convenient Counseling Services.

Live in New York and want to learn more about working with us? Check us out here!

Check out more content like this here.

 

Reference

Morin, A. (2023, July 7). Conduct disorder: Symptoms, causes, treatment. Verywell Mind. https://www.verywellmind.com/signs-of-conduct-disorder-in-children-4127239#toc-treatment

American Psychiatric Association. (2023). What are disruptive, Impulse Control and conduct disorders?. Psychiatry.org . https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/disruptive-impulse-control-and-conduct-disorders/what-are-disruptive-impulse-control-and-conduct

Child Mind Institute. (2023, February 23). Quick guide to conduct disorder. Child Mind Institute. https://childmind.org/guide/quick-guide-to-conduct-disorder/

American Psychiatric Association. (2022). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders Dsm-5-Tr.