Conduct disorders are a group of behaviors in which patients repeatedly violate the basic rights of others or transgress established major age-appropriate norms of society. They occur in childhood or adolescence and are more common among boys than girls. Patients may struggle in social, academic and family settings.

Many of the behaviors associated with conduct disorders resemble typical childhood rebellion and trauma, but are much more severe. Patients with conduct disorders typically have little regard for the feelings or well-being of others. They lack the capacity to empathize and frequently misjudge the intentions of others as being especially hostile or threatening. As a result, they often respond aggressively to these perceived threats and believe their behavior is justified.

Some patients with conduct disorders may have poor self-esteem, whereas others may have an inflated sense of self worth. Patients are often callous and feel little guilt or remorse, and even when they appear to acknowledge wrongdoing, it may simply be a tactic to avoid punishment.

Recklessness and risk-taking behavior are the typical characteristics of patients with conduct disorders. They may engage in sexual behavior at an early age, and may smoke, drink alcohol or use illegal drugs. They may get into legal troubles or have unplanned pregnancies.

In many cases, patients with a conduct disorder have lower-than-average intelligence and low academic performance. They may also have suicidal thoughts or may make suicide attempts.