Conduct disorder is much less well known than several other, more familiar problems related to childhood and the teen years. This disorder is characterized by physically violent or hostile behaviors paired with an utter disregard for others. Kids who suffer from conduct disorder are 
often labeled as delinquents or simply bad kids. In reality, this problem is a form of mental illness. Although many causes have been identified, other cases seem to have no specific origin. Left untreated, CD can disrupt a child’s academic, social or occupational functionality, leading to injury or even prison, in extreme cases.
Symptoms of Conduct Disorder
The symptoms of CD are abundant, but many are common to other mental and emotional illnesses. Marked aggression is common, whether to people or animals. This may include bullying, stealing, assault or physical cruelty. Kids with CD may set fires or willfully destroy the property of others. They may lie or steal to obtain items they covet. They frequently violate curfew without remorse or explanation, skip school or run away. Diagnosis is typically made if a child has exhibited three or more diagnostic criteria within the past 12 months, one of which has been present in the past six months. Symptoms can onset during either childhood (Child Onset Type, with symptoms appearing before age 10) or adolescence (Adolescent Onset Type, with symptoms appearing after age 10).
Causes of Conduct Disorder
Some potential causes for CD have been identified, but unfortunately, much about this disorder remains unknown. The most common risk factor is having a biological parent who suffers from depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD or schizophrenia. Kids who have been abused or neglected are at risk as well. In some cases, however, the cause seems to be related to social association. Children who have delinquent friends or peers have a higher incidence of CD. Some known cases of CD have developed after a child witnessed or was exposed to violence or rejection from peers.
Why Conduct Order is Easily Confused with Other Conditions
Rather than describing a specific issue, the term is more of a catchall for a group of emotional and behavior symptoms. The indicators mimic several more extreme types of mental illness, and the possibility for comorbidity is strong. Mood disorder, ADHD, anxiety and PTSD are just some of the problems that may accompany CD. Unfortunately, many parents and caregivers, unaware that their child is suffering from a treatable type of mental illness, lose hope and write their son or daughter off as just being a bad kid.
Dealing with conduct disorder poses one of the greatest problems for treatment, especially when comorbid conditions are present. The uncooperative nature of CD sufferers renders traditional therapeutic interventions ineffective; however, the earlier that treatment begins, the better the child’s chance of recovery. Havenwood Academy provides effective intervention programs for girls who suffer from CD, utilizing experiential therapies and other proven modalities. If your daughter suffers from conduct disorder, contact Havenwood today.
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Eric Allred was born and raised in Rigby, Idaho. He grew up on a family farm where he learned the value of work. He graduated from Rigby High School and attended Rick’s College, now known as BYU-Idaho. He received his bachelor’s degree in journalism from Utah State University, received a master’s degree in organizational behavior and human relations from the University of Phoenix and a second master’s degree in marital and family therapy from Phillips Graduate Institute. Eric has been involved in Rotary and was president of a local Rotary Club. He enjoys being with his family and doing outdoor activities such as fly fishing.
Chase was very fortunate to start in this industry as a struggling 17 year old kid looking for a mentor and something to be passionate about. Wilderness therapy was Chase’s first stop in this industry and was truly a transcendental experience for him. Chase has an enormous love for this line of work and the power that it has in creating change in everyone involved. Chase’s biggest belief is the power a mentor, strong, healthy relationships, and accountability can have on anyone, especially youth. Taking a very relational approach to his work, Chase has always been very relatable to the students he works with. Being able to understand and relate to a vast variety of the same struggles as a lot of the students he works with has been able to help him continue to grow, learn, and teach. Chase believes that with great rapport and trust, he can use his experience to continue to coach and train new staff, and has the ability to find those staff with the passion for this industry, and help them grow. His love and passion can be felt the moment you talk with Chase about this industry and he passes that on to others he works with. In his spare time you will find Chase cheering for the Eagles, Yankees, and Mavericks, hanging out with his brother, learning more about Eastern Psychology, and continuing to grow and learn.