Conduct Disorder.

Conduct disorder is a common behavioural syndrome that can affect children and adolescents. It is characterised by a persistent pattern of behaviours that infringe the rights or wellbeing of others, including hostility, destruction of property, and sometimes theft. Children with conduct disorder may also have difficulty following rules and may appear to lack empathy towards others. It is typically diagnosed in children over the age of 10 and is more common in boys than girls.

Children with conduct disorder may exhibit a range of behaviours, including:

• Physical hostility towards people and animals

• Destruction of property

• Theft or other forms of anti-social behaviour

• Breaking rules and violating the rights of others

• Appearing to lack empathy for others

• Defiance towards authority figures

• School truancy or dropping out of classes

How can parents support their children's mental health?

If your child is exhibiting symptoms of conduct disorder, it is important to seek professional help from a mental health provider. There are several treatments available for conduct disorder, including positive parenting techniques, family therapy, and sometimes medication for any co-morbid mental illness. Here are some other ways parents can support their children's mental health:

1. Provide structure and consistency: Children with conduct disorder benefit from a structured and consistent environment. Establish clear rules and consequences and consistently enforce them.

2. Encourage positive behaviours: Praise and reward your child for positive behaviours and accomplishments. For bad behaviour, instead of punishment use positive discipline techniques, redirection, and positive reinforcement.

3. Promote emotional regulation: Teach your child emotional regulation skills, such as deep breathing, meditation, or journaling, and model emotional regulation yourself where possible. Try to reduce the emotional intensity of communication at home as best you can, while remembering that no one is perfect and we are all human. Prioritise the reduction of any hostility, personal attacks, aggression, humiliation, and behaviour or communication where people are being personally affronted.

4. Seek family therapy: Family therapy can help improve communication and relationships within the family and reduce conflict.

5. Advocate for your child: If your child has conduct disorder, it is important to advocate for them and ensure they receive the support and services they need.

In addition to these strategies, there are things parents can do to support their own mental health. Here are some suggestions:

1. Seek support: Parenting a child with conduct disorder can be challenging and stressful. Seek support from family, friends, or a mental health provider.

2. Take care of yourself: It is important to take care of your own mental and physical health. Make time for self-care activities that you enjoy, such as exercise or hobbies.

3. Stay informed: Educate yourself about conduct disorder and the treatments available. Stay informed about your child's progress in treatment and advocate for them as needed.

Conduct disorder is a serious behavioural condition that can have a significant impact on children and families. If your child is exhibiting symptoms of conduct disorder, it is important to seek professional help from a mental health provider. By using positive discipline techniques, promoting emotional regulation, seeking family therapy, and advocating for your child, you can support your child's mental health and promote continued positive personal growth and development. Remember to also take care of your own mental health and seek support when needed