Conduct disorders are a type of disruptive behavior problem. People with conduct disorder display a repetitive and persistent pattern of behavior in which the basic rights of others or major age-appropriate societal norms or rules are violated. Disruptive behavior disorders, such as oppositional defiant disorder and conduct disorder, put children at risk for long-term problems including mental disorders, violence, and delinquency. Getting the right treatment early is key.
The disorder may begin as early as the preschool years, but the first significant symptoms usually emerge during the period from middle childhood through middle adolescence.
The incidence of conduct disorder estimates range from 2% to more than 10%. Rates rise from childhood to adolescence and are higher among males than females. Few children with impairing conduct disorder get treatment.