Conduct Disorder in Your Child is a Serious Issue

Not every child who breaks a rule, tells a lie or gets into a fight can be diagnosed with conduct disorder. Growing up is not easy, and most kids -- no matter how well-parented -- will stumble now and then along the way.

How can a parent tell the difference between an occasional mistake and a serious disruptive child behavior disorder? The first step is to know your child. Understanding what makes him or her tick takes time and effort, but it is a critical element in good parenting. Knowing whether your child's moment of misbehavior is an anomaly is critical information. If it becomes a persistent problem, it might be time to speak with your family doctor or a mental health professional.

Your child might have conduct disorder if he or she consistently exhibits these symptoms:

• Stealing
• Hitting or other violent acts
• Vandalism
• Causing harm to animals
• Early smoking or drug use
• Early sexual activity
• Flaunting of rules and laws

If your child displays these symptoms on a regular basis, don't make the mistake of falling into denial. Children with conduct disorder should not automatically be labeled, "bad kids." And the condition is not necessarily a product of "bad" parenting. It often is associated with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), which left unchecked can lead to more serious child disruptive behavior disorders such as post-traumatic stress disorder.