Keys to Identifying a Conduct Disorder in Children

One of the biggest concerns parents face is having one of their children being identified with any kind of health problem, even mental health issues. One of the more common problems seen in today's adolescents is called conduct disorder. The issues with this disorder beings and ends with the identification and treatment of it. Parents and guardians have rose colored glasses when they look at their child and tend to over look many symptoms of conduct disorder and do not realize how their life can be affected. Here is a look at several tips on how to identify a possible conduct disorder and the treatment of it.

Identification

The United States Health & Human service defines a conduct disorder as a child who continually goes against the basic expectations of society and how they treat other people and their property. This disorder is sometimes referred to as a disruptive behavior disorder because it not only affects the child, but their family and neighborhood.

To classify a behavior as a conduct disorder, mental health professional look to see if the negative behavior should have lasted more than six continual months while happening on a regular occurrence.

Every child can be at risk for a conduct disorder, but according to the report published by the Department of Health and Human Services, they discovered these disorders are more prevalent in boys compared and occur more often in metro cities rather than rural areas.

Various studies over the years have shown there are several possible risk factors that increase a child's chance of developing a conduct disorder. Some of those factors commonly mentioned in published reports are physical abuse or violence, early institutionalization, early maternal rejection, and family neglect. Researchers have begun to believe that the child's environment plays a greater role in determining the child's chance of developing the disorder.

There are several behaviors to look for when identifying conduct disorders. The first behavior and the most prevalent is the child's propensity for violence. Look to see if the child shows violence or aggressive behavior to other people or animals. Another sign would be if the child continually destroys the property of others. Children with conduct disorder have a tendency to commit misdemeanor crimes, from stealing and truancy, up to more serious ones like arson.

Some of the behaviors of children with conduct disorders are not directed towards the society as a hole, but rather themselves and the family. Another behavior to look for would be the child breaking numerous rules set forth by the parents or guardians. Other actions considered to be identifying factors of conduct disorder are drug and alcohol abuse, sexual promiscuity, academic issues, or suicide attempts.

Treatment

When it comes to the treatment of conduct disorders in children, the earlier it is identified and treated, the better your chances are of success. According to the United Stated Department of Health & Human Services, conduct disorders affect 1 - 4 % of children from 9 to 17 years of age.

You need to understand that conduct disorders are not something that will just go away over time. Without treatment, young people with this disorder usually have a hard time adjusting to responsibility when they become an adult. This can lead to potential issues with relationships and maintaining steady employment.

When it comes to the treatment of conduct disorders, parents must understand everyone is different. What works for one child may not work with another. It is not a lost cause if the first treatment does not work on your child.

Before you begin to think what kind of treatment should be used, the child should have a comprehensive examination by a licensed mental health doctor. There is the chance the identifying behaviors are linked to another existing condition. It is important to use the right treatment for the right condition.

When it comes to treatment behavior therapy is often used because it can be useful with conduct disorder as it helps a child understand how to express their emotions through words rather than through aggressive behavior. This therapy can also help a child learn to control their anger.

Remember when it comes to any kind of mental health treatment for your child, if you are not satisfied with the progress of it, you need to speak up. You can discuss your options with your provider or network with other families who have children with conduct disorders.

Since this type of mental disorder can affect not just the child but every family member it is imperative to take everyone into consideration. If the child has siblings, you want to make sure they do not withdraw from the family because of the amount of attention being paid to the 'bad' one. Family therapy is a treatment option that can help not just the child, but everyone in the family overcome the condition.

It is important for a parent to really listen to your children. More often than not, there is a deeper meaning to what they are saying to you. Most importantly, never give up on your children. Without your help, this can be a battle they will never win.

Sources

- http://mentalhealth.samhsa.gov/child

- http://www.hhs.gov/

- http://www.adhd.com.au/conduct.html