How are conduct disorder treated?

Specific treatment for children with conduct disorders will be determined by your child's (adolescent's) physician based on:

• your child's (adolescent's) age, overall health, and medical history
• extent of your child's (adolescent's) symptoms
• your child's (adolescent's) tolerance for specific medications, procedures, or therapies
• expectations for the course of the condition
• your opinion or preference

Treatment may include:

• Cognitive-behavioral approaches - The goal of cognitive-behavioral therapy is to improve problem solving skills, communication skills, impulse control, and anger management skills.
• Family therapy - Family therapy is often focused on making changes within the family system, such as improving communication skills and family interactions.
• Peer group therapy - Peer group therapy is often focused on developing social skills and interpersonal skills.
• Medication

While not considered effective in treating conduct disorder, medication may be used if other symptoms or disorders are present and responsive to medication.