Developing clearly defined and predicable responses to behavior is an integral component of successful treatment of this disorder. The essential feature of this disorder is a repetitive nd persistent pattern of behavior in which the basic rights of others or major societal norms or rules are violated. Individuals with Conduct Disorder generally have little regard for the feelings or concerns of others and often lack appropriate feelings of guilt or remorse. Treatment efforts typically focus on delineating consequences to inappropriate behavior across home, school and community settings. Onset is usually during late childhood or early adolescence.
Early onset predicts a worse prognosis.
In the majority of individuals, the disorder may subside by adulthood and many achieve adequate social and occupational functioning. However, many individuals with Conduct Disorder continue to show behaviors during adulthood which meet criteria for Antisocial Personality Disorder. Individuals with Conduct Disorder are also at risk for later Mood or Anxiety Disorders. Developing clearly defined and predictable responses to behavior is an integral component of successful treatment for this disorder. Adjustment Disorders are characterized by the development of clinically significant emotional or behavioral symptoms in response to an identifiable psychosocial stressor.