Conduct Disorders

Displaying patterns of defiance with 4+ symptoms from categories: angry/irritable, argumentative/defiant, & vindictiveness (Brown et al., 2019)

• Persistent anger issues, tantrums, hostile, uncooperative behaviors

• Comorbid with ADHD, anxiety, and depression (Natalie, 2015).

Natalie. (2015). Oppositional defiant disorder-infographic. Help Your Teen Now. https://helpyourteennow.com/oppositional-defiant-disorder-infographic/ 

"Characterized by recurrent behavioral outbursts as a result of one's inability to control aggressive impulses" (Brown et al., 2019)

• Magnitude of outbursts is out of proportion to precipitating psychosocial stressors 

• Racing thoughts, tingling, trembling, and temper tantrums are common (BetterHelp Editorial Team, 2024).

BetterHelp Editorial Team (2024). Intermittent explosive disorder. BetterHelp. https://www.betterhelp.com/mental-health/disorders-conditions/intermittent-explosive-disorder/ 

An impulse disorder associated with tension or anxiety only relieved by stealing

• The actions are not driven by monetary value, personal use, anger, or response to delusions (Brown et al., 2019)

A personality disorder applied to individuals 18+ with a history of conduct disorder before age 15

• Failure to conform, deceitfulness, irritability, & lack of remorse (Brown et al., 2019)

Audience: Client 

Condition: Conduct Disorders

Age Range/Population: Pediatrics, Young Adult, Adult, Geriatrics

Purpose: The purpose of using Progressive Muscle Relaxation (PMR) with clients with Conduct Disorder is to help them manage stress, reduce anger, and improve emotional regulation. This technique offers a practical method for clients to recognize physical tension and consciously release it, which can prevent escalation of aggressive impulses and promote overall emotional control. 

Instructions: Finding a quiet, comfortable space, take controlled breaths, inhale through the nose and exhale through the mouth. Starting at your feet, begin tensing the muscles for 5-7 seconds then relax completely for 10-15 seconds. Once relaxed, focus on how your muscles feel and repeat the process as you gradually move up your body one group at a time. Finish the sessions with another set of deep breaths.

Rationale & Impact on Function: PMR enables clients with Conduct Disorder to develop greater self-awareness of their physical and emotional states. By regularly practicing this technique, they can identify and reduce physical tension that might otherwise lead to impulsive or aggressive behaviors. This intervention promotes relaxation and emotional regulation, supporting improved behavioral control and the ability to manage stressful situations more effectively. Clients learn how to self-soothe and regain control over their emotional responses, which is vital for improving social and occupational functioning, as it reduces conflict and increases participation in various daily activities. 

Reference: Unknown, U. (n.d.). Progressive muscle relaxation script. https://www.baylor.edu/content/services/document.php/183466.pdf 

Audience: Client 

Condition: Conduct Disorders

Age Range/Population: Pediatrics, Young Adult

Purpose: This activity allows children to engage in a fun game while working on self-control, enhancing focus, encouraging social interaction, and reinforcing following directions.

Instructions: Within an open space, one player will stand at the finish line while all other players will stand about 30 feet apart at the start line. The "traffic light" player will call out "green light" which signals that the other players can move towards the finish. When "red light" is called, players have to immediately stop moving and if anyone is caught, they must return to the start. Repeat the interaction until the first player reaches the finish line. 

Rationale & Impact on Function: This activity can assist children in working on social skills, following directions, and improving attention which could translate positively in the classroom and at home.

Reference: Muriel, C. (2024). 21 impulse control activities for kids: Fun games, worksheets & resources to practice self-control at home or school. Very Special Tales. https://veryspecialtales.com/impulse-control-activities-kids/