The most common diagnosis of 'mental disorders' in childhood (around 6%)

Aetiology

• Oppositional defiant disorder (ODD) diagnosed in under 12s (primary school)
• Conduct disorder (CD) diagnosed in over 12s (secondary school)
  • Early CD behaviours are one of the most robust predictors of serious antisocial behaviour, criminality and substance misuse in later life

Management

• Most mental health services do not cater for these presentations - not considered a mental illness
• Early intervention by parenting/social interventions is key
• Medication rarely required but can be consider in most severe cases