Symptoms of Conduct Disorders

Dr. Miriam Galindo, a licensed psychologist and social worker in California, helps children and families coping with a variety of challenges. Although much of her work revolves around helping clients going through high-conflict divorces, Dr. Miriam Galindo is also familiar with dealing with various mental health issues, including conduct disorders.

Conduct disorder refers to a persistent and repetitive pattern of behavior that violates the rights of others or major societal norms. These behaviors are divided into four categories: aggressive behavior, deceitful behavior, destructive behavior, and violation of rules; each of which is briefly described below:

Aggressive behavior
These types of behaviors either cause physical harm to another being or threaten physical harm. Bullying and fighting are common aggressive behaviors. However, this category also includes the use of weapons, cruelty to animals, and forcing someone into sexual activity.

Deceitful behavior
Any repeated behavior that involves obtaining someone else’s property in a deceitful manner falls under this category. This may include such things as lying to obtain goods, breaking into someone’s house, or stealing items without confronting the victim, as is the case with shoplifting.

Destructive behavior
Intentionally destroying or harming property owned by another person or entity is destructive behavior. Within this category, people will find such behaviors as arson and vandalism.

Violation of rules
When a person goes against the accepted societal rules for their age, they are behaving in a way that violates the rules. Some examples of this type of behavior include skipping school and being sexually active at a young age.