By Suleiman Tajudeen
CITIZENS COMPASS –Conduct disorder (CD) is a serious mental health condition characterized by a repetitive and persistent pattern of dissocial, aggressive, or defiant conduct in children and adolescents.
This condition can have severe consequences on the individual, family, and society as a whole. In Nigeria, CD is a growing concern, and it is essential to understand the issue, its prevalence, and how to prevent and manage it.
Characteristics
1. Aggression
2. Destruction of property
3. Deceitfulness or theft
4. Serious violation of rules
5. Lack of empathy or remorse
Prevalence of Conduct Disorder in Nigeria*
Studies have shown that the prevalence of CD in Nigeria ranges from 6% to 12% among children and adolescents. A study conducted in Lagos, Nigeria, found that 8.5% of children aged 6-12 years had CD.
Global Prevalence
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), CD affects approximately 3.6% of children and adolescents worldwide. The global prevalence of CD varies across regions, with higher rates found in low- and middle-income countries.
Causes, risk factors
CD is caused by a combination of genetic, environmental, and social factors. Some of the risk factors include:
-Genetic predisposition:
Family history of CD, antisocial personality disorder, or substance abuse.
– Environmental factors:
Poor prenatal care, poor infant nutrition, poverty, physical abuse, and exposure to violence.
– *Social factors:
Family dysfunction, parental psychopathology, and peer influence.
Psychosocial Implications:
CD can have severe psychosocial implications, including:
– Social isolation:* Children with CD may have difficulty forming and maintaining relationships with their peers and family members.
– Academic underachievement:* CD can lead to significant impairment in academic functioning, including poor grades, truancy, and
To be continued …
Dr Suleiman Tajudeen is Head, Clinical Psychology, Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH), Idi-Araba, Lagos State
