In the past, disruptive behavior disorders were often attributed to a lack of willpower or general “badness” in children and adolescents. Research now points to unique neurodevelopmental underpinnings for these disorders. Neuroimaging, genetic studies, and other neurobiological advances have furthered our understanding of these common and frequently debilitating disorders and have led to new treatment and prevention efforts.

Disruptive Behavior Disorders in Children and Adolescents comprehensively reviews current research and clinical observations on this timely topic. The authors look at three subtypes of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), conduct disorder, and oppositional defiant disorder, all of which are common among youths and often share similar symptoms of impulse control problems. Specifically, it covers:

• Cutting-edge research on the diagnostic, epidemiological, and biological aspects of ADHD and state-of-the-art pharmacological treatments
• The important role that biological and environmental factors play in the etiology of conduct disorders
• The importance of age and development in diagnosing oppositional defiant disorder as well as practical guidelines and treatment options for clinicians working with patients with this disorder
• The similar biopsychosocial and developmental underpinnings of disruptive behavior disorders and the comorbidity of substance abuse or aggressive behavior with disruptive behavior disorders
• Research connecting ADHD and bipolar disorder and discusses the possible reasons for the association of violence and mental illness in youth
• The etiology of disruptive behavior disorders and effective treatment approaches, including psychopharmacological interventions

Helpful in exploring the effect of comorbidity, resilience, and environmental factors, this comprehensive guide proves valuable to clinicians and families in designing effective prevention and treatment programs.