The manifestation of Conduct disorder in troubled teenagers can appear quite disturbing for the average parent. A teen struggling with the disorder may experience difficulties managing their anger, adhering to guidelines, and generally keeping one’s behavior under control. But this may sound like quite a number of teens during the rocky stage of adolescence. And this is where misunderstandings may occur with this particular disorder. Those exhibiting the prior mentioned behaviors get labeled as “bad” even before their behaviors are properly assessed. Observations have shown that up to 10 teens in a group of 100 will suffer from the disorder. Boys have been observed to show the behavior of the disorder more than girls.
Conduct Disorder (CD) may be recognized by a constant outline of behavior wherein another’s basic rights and social norms and guidelines are dishonored. The behaviors present in Conduct disorder may actually include behavior common to Oppositional Defiance Disorder (ODD) wherein an outline of negativity, hostility, and defiance are characteristic of the disorder.
Possible characteristics of Conduct Disorder
The following are behaviors that may be linked to Conduct disorder:
- illegal use and/or possession of weapons
Your teenager may be diagnosed with a Conduct disorder after a physician recognizes the behavior through extensive questioning. Those close to the child like his or her parents or a caregiver will be questioned as well in order to determine whether the child’s everyday activities manifest the specific outlines of behavior which are representative of the disorder. From here, the therapist or physician will attempt to recognize a set pattern in your teen’s behavior, also in order to find out the frequency of occurrence of said behavior. Conduct Disorder, as well as Oppositional Defiance Disorder, is known to have a high rate of co-occurrence with the other disorders such as Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. The co-occurrence of another neuropsychological disorder must be considered in finding an appropriate treatment program for your teen.
After going through the possible traits of a teen with Conduct Disorder and you think that your teen may be afflicted with the disorder, there are a number of steps you may take. First of all, you should get a professional’s opinion. The family doctor would be a good source. Have your child take a complete physical exam. Go through your observations with the doctor. You may ask him or her for a referral to a psychologist or psychiatrist with experience with Conduct Disorder. Your teen’s school may actually be able to help you out. Possibly talk with a guidance counselor about the disorder and refer to their sources as well.
The following are professionals you may opt to talk to:
- Your family doctor
- Any religious or spiritual clergy for guidance
- An educational consultant that may aid in choosing an appropriate program for your teen
- Counselor or psychotherapist
- A teacher or guidance counselor at his/her school to aid with your son/daughter’s issues in class
There are a number of programs that can be open to your troubled teen in dealing with his or her Conduct Disorder. You may consider inpatient programs which require hospitalization, outpatient programs, treatment during the day, and residential programs as well.
