Conduct Disorder and Offending Behavior in Young People: Findings from Research

Offending behaviour in young people is a problem not only for affected neighbours and communities; it is also a serious problem for the young people involved. Behaviour problems and involvement in criminal activities have been linked to continued offending, substance misuse, lack of education and work - all factors that are linked, in turn, with shorter life expectancy. This book reviews the literature on a number of techniques and treatment approaches designed for use with adolescent conduct disorder and young offenders. The authors also provide an overview of the condition including its developmental pathway; the criteria for diagnosing conduct disorder, and services for adolescents. Conduct disorder and offending behaviour in young people are complex problems that need multi-agency, multifaceted solutions. This book aims to contribute to the design of services by drawing on a wide range of high-quality research, and presents it for the non-specialist. It is essential reading for child and adolescent mental health practitioners, social workers, youth offending teams and other professionals working with young people with conduct problems and their families.