Conduct Disorder Guides & Resources
If you’re searching for guides for Conduct Disorder, you’re not alone. Many parents feel overwhelmed when their child shows persistent aggression, rule-breaking, or deceitfulness. This article offers clear, step-by-step guidance—rooted in science and written for parents—to help you understand what’s happening and how to move forward with confidence.
Quick Guide to Conduct Disorder
What Is Conduct Disorder?
Conduct Disorder (CD) is a mental health condition in children and teens marked by a repetitive pattern of violating the rights of others and age-appropriate societal norms. It is not “bad behavior” or poor parenting; it is a diagnosable disorder that benefits from early, structured intervention.
Key Symptoms & Warning Signs
Look for at least three of the following in the past 12 months, with one present in the last six months:
- Aggression to people or animals
- Bullying, threatening, or intimidating others
- Physical fights or cruelty to animals
- Destruction of property
- Deliberate fire-setting or vandalism
- Deceitfulness or theft
- Breaking into homes or cars, shoplifting, lying for gain
- Serious violations of rules
- Staying out at night despite curfew (before age 13)
- Running away from home overnight at least twice
When to Seek Help
Seek professional guidance if:
- Behaviors occur across multiple settings (home, school, community).
- Academic performance or peer relationships are deteriorating.
- You feel your safety or the safety of siblings is at risk. Early action improves long-term outcomes and reduces the risk of progression to adult antisocial personality disorder.
Assessment & Diagnosis Guides
Step-by-Step Assessment Process
- Initial Screening
- Parent and teacher questionnaires (e.g., SDQ, Conners).
- Clinical Interview
- Structured or semi-structured interviews with child and caregivers.
- Behavioral Observation
- Direct observation at home or school when possible.
- Collateral Information
- Reports from school, pediatrician, and other caregivers.
- Diagnostic Formulation
- Clinician integrates data using DSM-5 criteria.
Downloadable Checklist (PDF)
Download our free 2-page Conduct Disorder Symptom Checklist to track behaviors before your appointment.
How to Prepare for Your First Appointment
- Bring records: school reports, previous evaluations, medical history.
- List triggers: note when and where behaviors spike.
- Prepare questions: ask about treatment options, duration, and family involvement.
- Plan logistics: arrange childcare for siblings if needed.
Evidence-Based Treatment Guides
Non-Pharmacological Management
- Parent Management Training (PMT)
- 8–12 sessions teaching consistent discipline and positive reinforcement.
- Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
- Helps the child recognize and reframe aggressive thoughts.
- Multisystemic Therapy (MST)
- Intensive, home-based program addressing family, school, and peer factors.
Psychopharmacological Options
Medication is not a first-line treatment but may help when:
- Severe aggression coexists with ADHD or mood disorders.
- FDA-approved options: atypical antipsychotics (e.g., risperidone) for irritability; stimulants for comorbid ADHD.
- Monitoring: regular weight, metabolic, and side-effect checks.
School & Home Integration Plans
- Individualized Education Plan (IEP) or 504 Plan for classroom accommodations.
- Daily behavior report cards to track goals and rewards.
- Structured routines at home: clear rules, consistent consequences, and predictable schedules.
Prevention & Early Intervention
Risk Factor Table
| Risk Factor | Protective Factor |
|---|---|
| Harsh parenting | Warm, consistent discipline |
| Peer rejection | Positive friendships |
| Low academic achievement | Engaging school environment |
| Neighborhood violence | Safe after-school programs |
Parent Training Programs
- Triple P (Positive Parenting Program): 5-level system from brief seminars to intensive coaching.
- Incredible Years: group sessions focusing on play, praise, and limit-setting. Both are offered online and in person at Cadabams CDC.
Community Support Resources
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Local parent support groups: meet monthly to share strategies.
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School liaison officers: bridge communication between home and school.