Conduct Disorders in Childhood and Adolescence

Conduct disorders are very common conditions and the most frequent reason for clinical referrals to child and adolescent mental health facilities. Aggression and oppositional behavior in youth often becomes persistent, and substantially increases the likelihood of adult problems of criminality, unstable relationships, psychiatric disorder, and harsh parenting. This comprehensive book by leading clinicians and researchers reviews established and emerging aspects of conduct disorder. It highlights the complexity and probable heterogeneity of the condition, including the biological, neuropsychological, cognitive factors, and role of attachment and family influences. The book reviews preventive and treatment approaches and outcomes with developmental and gender-based variations emphasized throughout. This uniquely authoritative survey of a common clinical and social problem integrates findings from a wide range of research perspectives, and will be essential reading for mental health practitioners and others with clinical, sociological, or medicolegal interests in child health and behavior.