Conduct Disorder

"Conduct disorder" refers to a group of repetitive and persistent behavioral and emotional problems in youngsters. Children and adolescents with this disorder have great difficulty following rules, respecting the rights of others, showing empathy, and behaving in a socially acceptable way. They are often viewed by other children, adults and social agencies as "bad" or delinquent, rather than mentally ill. Many factors may lead to a child developing conduct disorder, including brain damage, child abuse or neglect, genetic vulnerability, school failure, and traumatic life experiences.

Common signs of conduct disorder can include:

• Initiating physical fights.
• Bullying or threatening others.
• Using a weapon to cause harm.
• Physical cruelty to humans or animals.
• Stealing.
• Breaking into someone else's property.
• Forcing someone into sexual activity.
• Setting fire to cause damage.

Children who exhibit these behaviours should receive a comprehensive evaluation by an experience mental health professional. Many children with a conduct disorder may have  coexisting  conditions such as  mood disorders, anxiety, PTSD, substance abuse, ADHD, learning problems, or thought disorders which can also be treated. Research shows that youngsters with conduct disorder are likely to have on-going problems if they and their families do not receive early and comprehensive treatment. Without treatment, many youngsters with conduct disorder are unable to adapt to the demands of adulthood and continue to have problems with relationships and holding a job.

Treatment of children with conduct disorder can be complex and challenging. Treatment can be provided in a variety of different settings depending on the severity of the behaviours. Adding to the challenge of treatment are the child's uncooperative attitude, fear and distrust of adults. In developing a comprehensive treatment plan, a child and adolescent psychiatrist may use information from the child, family, teachers, community (including the legal system) and other medical specialties to understand the causes of the disorder.Behaviour therapy and psychotherapy are usually necessary to help the child appropriately express and control anger. Special education may be needed for youngsters with learning disabilities. Parents often need expert help to develop and carry out special management and educational programs in the home and at school. Home-based treatment programs such as Multisystemic Therapy (MST) are effective for helping both the child and family.Treatment may also include medication in some youngsters who may have difficulty paying attention, impulse problems, or depression. Treatment is rarely brief since establishing new attitudes and behaviour patterns takes time. However, early treatment offers a child a better chance for considerable improvement and hope for a more successful future. 

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Adira Jackson,
Editorial Manager,
WhatsApp: +3225889658.
childdisords@emedicalscience.com