This disorder is a set of behavioral alterations presented by some children and adolescents, which is followed by aggressiveness, defiance, and antisocial behavior, where the basic rights of others, rules, and social norms are violated. It is more serious than oppositional defiant disorder, and the patient is often directed to a child and adolescent psychiatry service.

Being more prevalent among boys, research shows that 9% of boys and 4% of girls under the age of 18 have the disorder. Boys show the symptoms earlier, between 10 and 12 years of age and girls between 14 and 16.

We have seen classical examples of delinquent behavior on the news where youngsters tear down public estate, write on walls, destroy cars and get involved in fights at bars, night clubs, and social events. Some of these youngsters may have conduct disorder.

Violating rules is the key element of this disorder. Youngsters with conduct disorder show antisocial behavior with physical aggression, cruel behavior towards people and pets, and acts of bullying at school.  They do not show guilt or regret for their actions, they are pessimists, challenging, hostile, and may perform acts of vandalism, thefts, and criminal damage to other people’s property.  Constant thefts of toys at department stores or personal objects from friends at school, besides violence and intimidating other students can be observed in the early stages of the conduct disorder.

They frequently show difficulty in social interactions, have few friends, present symptoms of low self-esteem, low tolerance to frustration, irritability, and outbursts of rage on a regular basis. All these factors escalate to delinquent behavior, physical aggression in school environment or on the streets, making use of weapons such as knives, clubs, or guns. Quitting and flunking school, running away from home, lies, drug and alcohol abuse, risky sexual behavior and absence of regret are also common.

Other conditions are frequently associated to conduct disorder. The more commonly associated disorders are mood disorders, anxiety disorders, substance abuse disorders, and ADHD.