Conduct Disorder

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Conduct Disorder

Medically reviewed · Ratel Health editorial team · Sunday, 16 August 2026

A childhood or adolescent condition involving a repetitive pattern of behavior that violates the rights of others or major age-appropriate societal norms.

Overview

Conduct disorder involves a repetitive and persistent pattern of behavior in children or adolescents that violates the basic rights of others or major age-appropriate societal norms, such as aggression, destruction of property, deceitfulness, or serious rule violations.

Signs and Symptoms

Symptoms can include bullying or threatening others, physical cruelty, destruction of property, lying or theft, and serious violations of rules such as running away or truancy. Experiencing one or more of these symptoms does not necessarily mean that a person has this condition. Diagnosis requires an appropriate clinical evaluation.

Causes and Risk Factors

The exact cause is not fully understood. Genetic factors, early temperament, family environment, and exposure to harsh or inconsistent discipline are each associated with increased risk.

Diagnosis

A diagnosis should be made by a qualified healthcare professional following a comprehensive clinical assessment. Clinicians may use established diagnostic frameworks such as DSM-5-TR and/or ICD-11 as part of a comprehensive assessment.

Treatment

Treatment depends on the individual’s symptoms, clinical history, severity, age, co-occurring conditions, and other relevant factors.

Psychotherapy

Parent management training and multisystemic or family-based interventions have evidence supporting their use.

Living With Conduct Disorder

Consistent, structured behavioral expectations at home and school, along with early intervention, can improve outcomes.

When to Seek Professional Help

Professional evaluation may be appropriate if symptoms persist, worsen, cause significant distress, or interfere with work, school, or relationships.

Emergency Situations

If a person may be in immediate danger, is experiencing a medical or psychiatric emergency, or may harm themselves or another person, seek immediate assistance through appropriate local emergency services.

Outlook

Outcomes vary; early identification and family-based intervention are associated with better long-term outcomes.

Related Conditions

Oppositional Defiant Disorder

A childhood-onset condition involving a persistent pattern of angry or irritable mood, argumentative or defiant behavior, or vindictiveness toward authority figures.

Antisocial Personality Disorder

A personality disorder marked by a pervasive pattern of disregard for and violation of the rights of others.

Intermittent Explosive Disorder

A condition involving recurrent behavioral outbursts representing a failure to control aggressive impulses, out of proportion to the situation.

Medical Information Disclaimer

Ratel Health provides general educational information and does not provide medical diagnosis, treatment, or individualized medical advice. Information on this page is not a substitute for evaluation or care from a qualified healthcare professional. Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or another person, or to start, stop, or change treatment or medication without consulting an appropriately qualified healthcare professional.

References

  • American Psychiatric Association. Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition, Text Revision (DSM-5-TR).
  • National Institute of Mental Health.
  • World Health Organization. International Classification of Diseases, 11th Revision.