Conduct Disorder

Conduct disorder is a psychiatric disorder characterized by a persistent pattern of behavior violating the rights of others and age-appropriate societal norms, including aggression, deceitfulness, theft, and serious rule violations. Etiology involves genetic, neurobiological, and psychosocial factors, including impaired executive function, family dysfunction, and exposure to adverse childhood experiences. Clinically, patients exhibit aggression toward people or animals, property destruction, deceit, theft, or serious violations of rules, often resulting in legal or academic consequences. Diagnosis is based on DSM-5 criteria, requiring persistent patterns over at least 12 months and significant functional impairment. Management includes behavioral therapy, family intervention, social skills training, and pharmacologic treatment for comorbid conditions such as ADHD or mood disorders. Prognosis varies, with early intervention improving outcomes and reducing risk of antisocial personality disorder in adulthood.