Conduct Disorder (CD) affects approximately six to 16 percent of boys and two to nine percent of girls under the age of 18 in the United States. This disorder is one of the most frequently diagnosed conditions in mental health facilities for children and has a wide variety of symptoms. Activities associated with CD include drinking, smoking, risk-taking acts, and sexual behaviors (American Psychiatric Association, 1994).
Conduct Disorder is one of the many disorders that affects children and adolescents from all types of backgrounds. Aggressive behaviors may begin in early childhood and, once established, may be difficult to change. Some of the most commonly hypothesized environmental influences on CD include aggressive models, specifically conflict between parents, and certain parent-child rearing and discipline practices. Conduct Disorder is only one outcome of these variables and many separate factors are included in each variable. Studies examining CD show correlational results to the display of this disorder and parental conflict. Child-rearing and discipline practices are also related to the display of Conduct Disorder.
Jennifer Rejcha, ’99 Auburn, NE
Sponsor: Suzette Astley