Conduct Disorders

Conduct disorders are behavioral and emotional conditions that often emerge in childhood or adolescence. They involve persistent rule-breaking patterns, aggression, and disregard for others, disrupting daily life and relationships. The Texas Advance Behavioral Health experts in Arlington, Texas, address these disorders and effectively manage them with the right combination of therapy, family support, and skill-building. Call for an appointment today by phone or online.

What are conduct disorders?

Conduct disorders are a group of mental health conditions involving persistent patterns of behavior that violate societal norms, rules, and the rights of others. These behaviors aren’t occasional missteps but consistent patterns that can interfere with a person's relationships, academic performance, and daily life. 

Conduct disorders typically begin in childhood or adolescence and can manifest in various ways, ranging from defiance to severe aggression.

What issues fall under the category of conduct disorders?

Conduct disorders encompass a range of problematic behaviors, including:

• Aggression toward people and animals (bullying, threatening, physical fights, cruelty to animals, or forcing others into unwanted activities)
• Destruction of property (intentional vandalism, arson, or other acts of deliberate property damage)
• Deceitfulness or theft (lying for personal gain, shoplifting, or breaking into homes or vehicles)
• Serious violations of rules (running away from home, truancy from school, or staying out past curfew, often despite parental objections)

These behaviors often lead to significant legal, social, and interpersonal consequences.

Children and adolescents with conduct disorders may struggle to form healthy relationships, perform well in school, or stay out of trouble with the law.

How are conduct disorders treated?

The Texas Advance Behavioral Health team may treat conduct disorders with a multi-faceted approach tailored to the individual’s needs. The condition can be influenced by genetic, environmental, and psychological factors. 

Common treatment strategies include:

Psychotherapy

Behavioral therapy, particularly cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), helps individuals identify and manage negative thought patterns and behaviors.

Family therapy

Engaging family members in therapy can improve communication, establish boundaries, and create a supportive environment.

Medication

While there’s no approval of specific medication for conduct disorders, your provider may prescribe medications to address co-occurring issues like ADHD, depression, or anxiety.

Social skills training

Programs that teach empathy, problem-solving, and interpersonal skills can help improve behavior over time.

School and community support

Collaborating with teachers and community programs can provide additional structure and reinforcement of positive behaviors.

Early diagnosis and intervention are critical, as untreated conduct disorders can lead to severe consequences in adulthood, such as antisocial personality disorder or chronic criminal behavior.

Book an appointment today to learn how to address conduct disorders. Call or schedule an evaluation today.