Because the symptoms are closely tied to socially unacceptable or violent behavior, many people confuse this illness with either juvenile delinquency or the turmoil of the teen years. However, young people with conduct disorder often have underlying problems that have been missed or ignored, such as epilepsy or a history of head and facial injuries. Children who have demonstrated at least three of the following behaviors over 6 months should be evaluated for possible conduct disorder. Forcing others into sexual activity Often starting fights Using weapons in fights Appropriate treatment for conduct disorder is essential. Aimed at helping young people realize and understand the effect their behavior has on others, treatment includes behavior therapy and psychotherapy, in either individual or group sessions.
Some youngsters have depression or ADHD in addition to conduct disorder.
For these children, use of medications as well as psychotherapy has helped lessen the symptoms of conduct disorder. Autism Children with autism, which strikes as many as five out of every 10,000 children, have a dramatically impaired ability to communicate and interact with others. The level of activity and range of interests of these children are also extremely limited. It is three times more common in boys than in girls. As infants, children with autism don't cuddle and may even stiffen and resist affection.