Evidence-Based Methods Of Dealing With Social Deficits In Conduct Disorder

Conduct Disorder affects a significant number of children, resulting in serious ramifications for the social relationships as well as the emotional and behavioral functioning of these children. In particular, the incidence of Conduct Disorder in young children may be as high as 35% (Webster-Stratton & Hammond, 1998). A significant percentage of older children and adolescents also are affected (2-3%, Maughan, Rowe, Messer, Goodman, & Meltzer, 2004; 1-10%, APA, 2000), with males showing higher rates of diagnosis than females (6-16% of boys versus 2-9% of girls; APA, 2000). Given the social, emotional, and behavioral difficulties that accompany a diagnosis of Conduct Disorder, it is often cited as the most common reason for referrals for mental health services (e.g., preschoolers, Luby & Morgan, 1997; school-age children, Foster, Kelsch, Kamradt, Sosna, & Yang, 2001). Of most concern, the behaviors associated with Conduct Disorder (e.g., aggression) show significant stability over time (Keenan, Shaw, Delliquadri, Giovannelli, & Walsh, 1998). © 2009 Springer Science+Business Media, LLC