How long does conduct disorder treatment take?

Typically 6–12 months, depending on severity.

Can conduct disorder be completely cured?

Many children improve significantly; early, consistent therapy yields the best outcomes.

What role do parents play in treatment?

Parents are co-therapists, practicing skills daily at home.

Can my child receive conduct disorder treatment without medication?

Absolutely. In fact, therapy is the primary and most crucial intervention. Many children and adolescents successfully complete **`conduct disorder treatment without medication`**. Medication is only considered when clinically necessary to treat severe symptoms or co-occurring disorders like ADHD

What is the role of parents in the treatment process?

Parents are essential partners in the treatment process. Your active participation in family therapy and Parent Management Training is one of the single biggest predictors of success. We empower you with the skills and support you need to help your child succeed.

How do you differentiate between Conduct Disorder and typical teenage rebellion?

While some behaviors overlap, Conduct Disorder involves a persistent and severe pattern of violating the rights of others and major societal norms. Unlike typical rebellion, the behaviors in CD are more aggressive, destructive, and deceitful, and they cause significant impairment in functioning at home, school, and in the community. Our comprehensive assessment is designed to make this critical distinction

Conduct Disorder Treatment at Cadabam’s Child Development Center

Conduct Disorder Treatment can feel overwhelming for parents. At Cadabams CDC, we turn uncertainty into a clear, hopeful roadmap. This guide explains what conduct disorder is, how to spot it early, and the proven therapies we use—so you can make confident, informed choices for your child.

What is Conduct Disorder?

Definition and Key Characteristics

Conduct Disorder is a persistent pattern of behavior in which a child or teen repeatedly violates the basic rights of others or age-appropriate societal norms. Key signs include:

Aggression toward people or animals
Destruction of property
Deceitfulness or theft
Serious rule violations (e.g., truancy, running away)

Difference from Oppositional Defiant Disorder

While Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) is marked by defiance and argumentativeness, Conduct Disorder involves more severe behaviors such as physical harm and legal violations. Think of ODD as “talking back”; Conduct Disorder as “acting out dangerously.”

Prevalence in Children and Adolescents

Affects 2–10% of school-aged children globally
Boys are diagnosed more often than girls, though girls may display more covert behaviors

Recognizing Symptoms of Conduct Disorder

Aggressive Behavior Patterns

Bullying, threatening, or intimidating peers
Physical fights or weapon use

Deceitful and Destructive Behaviors

Lying to obtain goods or favors
Deliberate fire-setting or vandalism

Serious Violations of Rules

Staying out at night despite curfews (before age 13)
Skipping school frequently

Early Warning Signs in Younger Children

Frequent tantrums that escalate to hitting
Cruelty to pets or siblings
Lack of remorse after misbehavior

Causes and Risk Factors

Biological and Genetic Influences

Family history of antisocial behavior or ADHD
Neurotransmitter imbalances affecting impulse control

Environmental Triggers

Exposure to violence at home or in the community
Inconsistent discipline or harsh parenting styles

Psychosocial Contributors

Peer rejection or association with delinquent friends
Academic failure leading to low self-esteem

Co-occurring Mental Health Conditions

ADHD, anxiety, or depression often appear alongside conduct disorder, intensifying symptoms.

Our Comprehensive Assessment Process

Initial Screening and Clinical Interview

Our child psychologists meet with you and your child to gather developmental history and current concerns.

Standardized Assessment Tools

Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL)
Conners Rating Scales

Family and School Input

Questionnaires and short interviews with teachers ensure we see the full picture across settings.

Differential Diagnosis

We rule out ADHD, mood disorders, or learning disabilities to confirm Conduct Disorder and craft the right conduct disorder treatment plan.

Evidence-Based Treatment Approaches

Behavioral Parent Training (BPT)

Parents learn positive reinforcement strategies and consistent consequences.

8–12 weekly sessions
Real-time coaching via video or in-person

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

Children identify thought patterns that lead to aggression and practice pro-social alternatives.

Multisystemic Therapy (MST)

An intensive, home-based program that addresses family, peer, and school systems simultaneously.

Social Skills Training

Small groups teach conflict resolution, empathy, and anger management through role-play and games.

Medication Management When Needed

For severe aggression or co-occurring ADHD, psychiatrists may prescribe low-dose stimulants or mood stabilizers—always paired with therapy.

Our Treatment Programs

Individual Therapy Sessions

One-on-one CBT with child-friendly activities like storytelling and art.

Family Therapy and Parent Coaching

Strengthen communication and reduce household stress.

Group Therapy Programs

Peer groups normalize change and build accountability.

School Collaboration Services

We train teachers on classroom strategies and IEP goals.

Intensive Outpatient Options

After-school programs offering 3–4 hours of therapy multiple days a week for rapid stabilization.

Prevention and Early Intervention

Identifying At-Risk Children

Screenings in schools and pediatric clinics flag early symptoms.

Parenting Skills Workshops

Free monthly sessions on limit-setting and positive discipline.

School-Based Prevention Programs

Teacher trainings and anti-bullying curricula.

Community Awareness Initiatives

Partnering with local NGOs to reduce stigma and share resources.

Success Stories and Outcomes

Treatment Success Metrics

75% reduction in aggressive incidents within 6 months
85% school attendance improvement

Long-term Follow-up Results

Annual check-ins show sustained gains up to 3 years post-treatment.

Parent Testimonials

“Cadabams CDC gave us our gentle, loving son back. The parent training was a game-changer.” — Mother of 10-year-old