DIAGNOSIS AND PHARMACOTHERAPY OF CONDUCT DISORDER

1. There are few double-blind, placebo-controlled studies of the drug treatment of conduct disorders in children and adolescents. 2. The dia gnosis of conduct disorders involves a persistent pattern of behavior in which the basic rights of others and standards of society are viola ted. 3. There is frequent comorbidity associated with conduct disorder s including attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, oppositional def iant disorder, mood disorders and substance abuse. 4. Childhood Conduc t disorder is associated with a significant risk for adult psychopatho logy. 5. A variety of treatment approaches may be employed to combat c onduct disorders. 6. The use of neuroleptics, lithium carbonate, stimu lants and other agents is reviewed.