Conduct Disorder - Expand the Reach

Conduct Disorder Signs

Aggressive behaviour; e.g., bullying,
Threatening, physical fighting,
Cruelty to animals,
Stealing (may use a weapon)
Destruction of property; e.g., fire-setting, Breaking windows, throwing objects
Lack of empathy; e.g. callousness and absence of guilt feelings, blaming others for one’s own misbehaviour
Frequent disobeying of class rules
Use of drugs or alcohol at school
Early sexual activity
Open displays of hostility/ “toughness”
Academic problems with reading and verbal skills
Deceitfulness (e.g., lying, stealing, “conning”)

Strategies

Actively teach what is appropriate and what is not with young children.
Specifically define what is considered unacceptable behaviour.
Have firm, clear rules and consistent natural consequences for unacceptable behaviours.
Avoid consequences that are too extreme – either too harsh or too easy.
Provide lots of positive feedback when they does something well.
Observe the child’s negative behaviour as a symptom of a disorder you are both working to solve together.
Encourage an adolescent to behave appropriately when angry by engaging in physical outlets suggested in the ODD section.
Encourage social opportunities for them to express feelings and keep them involved in sports activities.
Try to develop a mentoring relationship between the athlete and another caring adult.
Suggest a support group for parents of children with conduct disorder.

Expand the Reach is a web based resource for coaches, athletes of all levels, parents and community organizations to support Mental Wellness, and early intervention for better performance in sport & life.