Which factor is a recognized risk factor for conduct disorder?

Which factor is a recognized risk factor for conduct disorder?

• A. Early neglect or abuse
• B. High socioeconomic status
• C. Strong parental supervision
• D. Excellent school performance

Answer: (A)

Early neglect or abuse can set the stage for conduct disorder because it disrupts secure attachment, impairs emotion regulation, and exposes a child to chronic stress. When children don’t receive reliable caregiving or are exposed to harsh treatment, they may learn aggressive or defiant ways of coping, model antisocial behavior, and miss out on positive socialization and limits that help shape prosocial behavior. This combination can lead to patterns of violating others’ rights and norms that define conduct disorder. In contrast, higher socioeconomic status, strong parental supervision, and good school achievement are protective factors. They provide stability, structure, resources, and positive role models that reduce the likelihood of developing conduct problems.

Early neglect or abuse can set the stage for conduct disorder because it disrupts secure attachment, impairs emotion regulation, and exposes a child to chronic stress. When children don’t receive reliable caregiving or are exposed to harsh treatment, they may learn aggressive or defiant ways of coping, model antisocial behavior, and miss out on positive socialization and limits that help shape prosocial behavior. This combination can lead to patterns of violating others’ rights and norms that define conduct disorder.

In contrast, higher socioeconomic status, strong parental supervision, and good school achievement are protective factors. They provide stability, structure, resources, and positive role models that reduce the likelihood of developing conduct problems.