What behavior is commonly associated with children diagnosed with conduct disorder?

Children diagnosed with conduct disorder often exhibit behaviors that demonstrate a persistent pattern of violating societal norms and the rights of others. One of the hallmark behaviors associated with this disorder is defiance of authority. These children may show aggressive behavior, frequent outbursts, and a disregard for rules set by parents, teachers, and other authority figures. This oppositional behavior can manifest as openly challenging rules or being uncooperative, which distinctly marks the behavioral profile of conduct disorder.

In contrast, social withdrawal, high academic performance, and excessive shyness do not typically characterize children with conduct disorder. Instead, these traits might align more closely with anxiety disorders, shy temperament, or other behavioral issues that do not involve the aggressive and rule-breaking behavior indicative of conduct disorder. Understanding these patterns helps in identifying and intervening in cases where a child may be struggling with this condition.