Effective Treatment of Conduct Disorder

• NCJ Number: 183498
• Author(s): Molly Brunk Ph.D.
• Date Published: 1999
• Length: 10 pages
• Grant Number(s): 97-JE-FX-0051
• Sponsoring Agency: Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention (OJJDP)
• Corporate Author: Institute of Law, Psychiatry & Public Policy, University of Virginia
• Sale Source: NCJRS Photocopy Services; Institute of Law, Psychiatry & Public Policy, University of Virginia
• Publication Format: Document
• Publication Type: Program/Project Description
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This paper reviews effective treatment of conduct disorder.

Abstract

Conduct problems in children and adolescents present a serious concern for agencies dealing with youth. Persistent display of antisocial behaviors such as physical aggression, lying and stealing, and violation of family, school and societal rules characterize youth with a Conduct Disorder diagnosis. The disorder has a relatively poor long-term prognosis and is displayed by family members over multiple generations. Approximately two-thirds of youth with Conduct Disorder will continue to display antisocial behaviors into adulthood. The paper describes three types of treatment that can create change in problem behaviors. Family-Based Interventions include ongoing involvement of a parent or family member who is required to complete tasks or practice skills outside the treatment session. Individually Focused Interventions have the youth as the primary participant and are designed to address his or her social skills and problem-solving deficits. Community Systems-Based Interventions include group homes and wilderness programs, and are for aggressive and delinquent adolescents. Notes, table, bibliography, references