The most common diagnosis of 'mental disorders' in childhood (around 6%)
Aetiology
- Oppositional defiant disorder (ODD) diagnosed in under 12s (primary school)
- Conduct disorder (CD) diagnosed in over 12s (secondary school)
- Early CD behaviours are one of the most robust predictors of serious antisocial behaviour, criminality and substance misuse in later life
Management
- Most mental health services do not cater for these presentations - not considered a mental illness
- Early intervention by parenting/social interventions is key
- Medication rarely required but can be consider in most severe cases
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