Conduct Disorder in Children
What are the treatments for the condition?
Treatment of conduct disorder may include group, individual,
or family therapy or a combination. Psychotherapy
is aimed at helping the child learn methods to deal with his or her emotions
and impulses in ways that work better in social settings.
Counseling is essential to help the child with self-esteem,
mood, anger control, and interpersonal problems. Providing support and
sensitive acceptance of the child is important. This will include helping
the child understand the various sources of the problems. Counseling
will also focus on developing appropriate behavior and coping skills.
A predictable and nurturing home environment is important as
well. A balance in diet, rest, play, and study should be maintained. Solid
discipline, coupled with nurturing, consistent, and fair expectations is
important for children with a conduct disorder.
Special education services with a plan customized for the
child may be developed at school. This plan will help arrange for additional
services for the child. Parents need to work closely with the school
and educational services team.
In come cases, medicine for mood disorders may be used.
What are the side effects of the treatments?
There are no side effects of the behavioral treatments.
Side effects may occur if medicines are used.
What happens after treatment for the condition?
Mild forms of conduct disorder tend to improve as the child ages.
Those who receive adequate social and work adjustments show progress.
For others, the behaviors continue into adulthood and may develop into
antisocial personality disorder. A plan should be in place with the child,
family, and therapist for what steps to take if signs of relapse appear.
An agreement should be made to call the therapist when those symptoms
occur.
How is the condition monitored?
Conduct disorder is monitored by the family, the school,
and the therapist. Any new or worsening symptoms should be reported to
the healthcare provider.
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