Causes

While it is clear that some mental health disorders have an organic basis, the underlying causes, and exactly how they are manifested is typically much more controversial. This chapter discusses the complex and multifaceted interaction of genetic, neurological, and environmental factors implicated in the development of conduct disorder (CD). As is the case with many forms of psychopathology, the specific causal factors linked to the development of CD have not yet been identified. However, research completed within the last two decades has yielded several correlates of the development of this disorder. Because numerous different causal factors in the development of CD have been suggested and linked through research to this form of psychopathology, it appears evident that one single primary cause does not exist. Instead, an interplay of organic factors, including neuroanatomical features/processes and genetics, and environmental conditions influence the manifestation of CD. The contributing factors that have been linked to the development of CD are considered below.