472 Disruptive, Impulse-Control, and Conduct Disorders
Although the validity of self-report to assess the presence of the specifier has been sup-
ported in some research contexts, individual s with conduct disorder with this specifier
may not readily admit to the traits in a clinical interview. Thus, to assess the criteria for the
specifier, multiple information sources are ne cessary. Also, because the indicators of the
specifier are characteristics that reflect the in dividual’s typical pattern of interpersonal and
emotional functioning, it is important to co nsider reports by others who have known the
individual for extended periods of time an d across relationships and settings (e.g., par-
ents, teachers, co-workers, extended family members, peers).
Diagnostic Features
The essential feature of conduct disorder is a repetitive and persistent pattern of behavior
in which the basic rights of others or major age-appropriate societal norms or rules are vi-
olated (Criterion A). These be haviors fall into four main groupings: aggressive conduct
that causes or threatens physical harm to other people or animals (Criteria A1–A7); non-
aggressive conduct that causes property loss or damage (Criteria A8–A9); deceitfulness or
theft (Criteria A10–A12); and serious violations  of rules (Criteria A13–A15). Three or more
characteristic behaviors must ha ve been present during the pa st 12 months, with at least
one behavior present in the past 6 months. The disturbance in behavior causes clinically
significant impairment in social, academic, or  occupational functioning (Criterion B). The
behavior pattern is usually pres ent in a variety of settings, su ch as home, at school, or in
the community. Because individu als with conduct disorder ar e likely to minimize their
conduct problems, the clinician often must rely on additional informants. However, infor-