CONDUCT DISORDER

 

I heard a very powerful quotes that says : “The distinction between diseases of “brain” and “mind,” between “neurological” problems and “psychological” or “psychiatric” ones, is an unfortunate cultural inheritance that permeates society and medicine. It reflects a basic ignorance of the relation between brain and mind. Diseases of the brain are seen as tragedies visited on people who cannot be blamed for their condition, while diseases of the mind, especially those that affect conduct and emotion, are seen as social inconveniences for which sufferers have much to answer. Individuals are to be blamed for their character flaws, defective emotional modulation, and so on; lack of willpower is supposed to be the primary problem.”— Antonio R. DDamasioq, With this thought in mind I would like to highlight one of the neurological disease “CONDUCT DISORDER”

The term "conduct disorder" refers to a group of behavioural and emotional issues that occur in children on a regular basis. Children and adolescents with this disease have a hard time following rules, respecting others' rights, demonstrating empathy, and acting in a socially acceptable manner. Other children, adults, and social agencies frequently label them as "bad" or "delinquent" rather than mentally ill.

The social and health consequences of conduct disorder are severe. With a global prevalence of roughly 5% and rising, it is the most frequent psychiatric disorder among children. This description is given to children who have tantrums, are verbally or physically hostile, lie, steal, or violate the rights of others.

Furthermore, many children with conduct disorder are irritable, have low self-esteem, and have a proclivity for throwing temper tantrums. Some people may be addicted to drugs and alcohol. Children with conduct disorder are typically unable to recognise how their actions can harm others and have little sorrow or remorse for doing so.

Fascinating facts about Conduct disorder:

·         Boys are more likely than girls to have conduct disorder before the age of ten or throughout adolescence.

·         One in every four children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) faces the possibility of developing conduct disorder.

·         Conduct disorder behaviours are seen in up to 45 percent of ADHD teens.

·         A diagnosis and medical therapy for a kid or adolescent with the illness is required.

Causes of conduct disorder:

·         Biological: According to several research, abnormalities or injuries to certain parts of the brain might cause behavioural problems. The brain regions involved in regulating behaviour, impulse control, and emotion have been related to conduct disorder.

·         Genetics: Many adolescents and teenagers with conduct disorder have close family members who suffer from mental illnesses such as mood disorders, anxiety disorders, substance use disorders, and personality problems.

·         Male sex, maternal smoking during pregnancy, childhood poverty, maltreatment or domestic violence, and parental substance use disorders or criminal conduct are also risk factors.

·         In order to diagnose conduct disorder, at least three symptoms must have occurred in the last 12 months, with at least one occurring in the previous six months. Ineffective parenting and disciplinary practises in the home and at school are key predictors of this disorder, which has far-reaching societal effects.

·         Social: Low socioeconomic level and social rejection appear to be risk factors for the onset of conduct disorder.

Symptoms of conduct disorder:

This developmental process is likely influenced by a number of variables. The following are the main characteristics of conduct disorder:

• Aggression : Fighting, bullying, being harsh to others or animals, using weapons, and forcing someone into sexual intercourse are examples of actions that threaten or cause physical harm.

• Vandalism

• TheftLying on a regular basis

• Breaking the rules and fleeing

• It is inhumane to people or animals on a physical level

• and harms the victim. forced

• someone to engage in sexual activity, having broken into another person's building, residence, or automobile.

• frequently stays out late over parental objections.

• shows no true regret after an aggressive episode.

• Children who are subjected to harsh discipline, have parents who are cruel or rejecting, are in poor health, and are not brought to visit other people with children are more likely to develop conduct disorder.

Treating such people with rage is not a solution; instead, they should be treated with compassion and patience. Assuming that they are mentally ill is also incorrect, because this is a neurological disorder that should be treated properly once diagnosed, rather than forcing them to abandon their lives.

How to diagnose conduct disorder?

A behaviour disorder can be diagnosed by a child psychiatrist or a trained mental health professional. He or she will discuss the child's conduct with parents and teachers, as well as monitor the child. Your youngster may require mental health testing in various circumstances.

If your kid or teen shows signs of conduct disorder, you can help them by getting a diagnosis straight soon. Treatment at an early stage can typically avert subsequent issues.

If the doctor cannot find a physical basis for the symptoms, the kid will most likely be referred to a child and adolescent psychiatrist or psychologist, mental health professionals who are trained to diagnose and treat mental diseases in children and teenagers. To examine a child for a mental condition, psychiatrists and psychologists utilise specifically created interview and evaluation methods. The doctor makes a diagnosis based on the child’s symptoms and observations of his or her attitudes and conduct.

Treatment of conduct disorder:

The following therapies may be used to treat conduct disorder:

·         CBT stands for cognitive-behavioral therapy: A child learns how to solve problems, communicate, and deal with stress more effectively. He or she also learns to regulate their emotions and urges.

·          Therapy for the whole family: This therapy aids in the family’s transformation. It promotes family interactions and communication skills.

·          Peer-to-peer counselling: A child’s social and interpersonal skills improve.

·         Make other people aware of your child’s conduct condition. Develop a treatment plan with your healthcare professional and school.

·          Seek assistance. It may be beneficial to connect with other parents who have children that suffer from conduct disorder. If you’re feeling concerned or overwhelmed, talk to your doctor about joining a support group for parents of kids with conduct disorder.

·         Psychotherapy is a sort of psychotherapy that aims to assist the child in learning to express and manage anger in more appropriate ways. Cognitive-behavioral therapy tries to increase problem-solving skills, anger management, moral reasoning skills, and impulse control through reshaping the child’s thinking (cognition).