Intermediate
Technical
IVT
conduct disorder
A repetitive and persistent pattern of behavior that violates the basic rights of others or major age-appropriate societal norms.
Full Definition
Conduct disorder is characterized by a pattern of aggressive conduct toward people and animals, destruction of property, deceitfulness or theft, and serious violations of rules. The behavior must be present for at least 12 months with at least one criterion present in the past 6 months. Onset can be childhood-onset (before age 10) or adolescent-onset (no symptoms before age 10). The disorder often co-occurs with other mental health conditions and substance use disorders.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from oppositional defiant disorder, which lacks the severe antisocial behaviors.
In Context
- "The adolescent's history of aggression and property destruction supports a diagnosis of conduct disorder, adolescent-onset type." — Diagnostic evaluation
- "Early intervention for conduct disorder may prevent progression to antisocial personality disorder in adulthood." — Treatment recommendation
Also known as
CD
Don't confuse with
oppositional defiant disorder
antisocial personality disorder