While there is much speculation that teens who engage in criminal activity often exhibited behaviour problems when younger, many children outgrow these behaviours. Obviously not all children with conduct disorder will engage in a life of crime, and not all criminals displayed conduct problems as children. However, the data now available may suggest what types of programs at the family level are most likely to be effective to help children, teachers, and families in the shorter run. 11-year olds are considered to have conduct disorder. This report was first published on the BCTF Research electronic mailing list.
Parenting style is the single most important factor associated with conduct disorder .
It should be noted, however, that the data clearly indicate that other factors are at work, beyond those accounted for in the study. Number of parents in household is also significant. A child with a lone parent is twice as likely to have conduct disorder as a child with two parents. SES includes parental education, job status, and income. Number of siblings also matters.