Now a 15-year-old, Peter has been cutting classes and getting into fights. His parents have been called to the guidance office because he has shown disrespect and defiance to his teacher. They have caught him stealing from them and his siblings. He continues to break house rules and has even run away for two weeks. Mark and Monica are at their wits end about what to do about their son. So they do the best that they can, but their best does not work for this boy, so they have basically given up and pretty much let him be.

That is a very big mistake. Peter is suffering from what we call conduct disorder. Conduct disorder is found in teenagers. It is marked by a repetitive and persistent pattern of behavior in which the basic rights of others and the rules of society are violated. A teenager suffering from conduct disorder will show at least three of the following signs:

1. He bullies, threatens or intimidates others.

2. Often initiates physical fights.

3. Has used a weapon that can cause serious physical harm to others.

4. Has been physically cruel to people.

5. Has been physically cruel to animals.

6. Has stolen while confronting a victim.

7. Has forced someone into sexual activity.

Destruction of property

1. Has deliberately engaged in fire setting with the intention of causing serious damage.

2. Has deliberately destroyed others. property.

Deceitfulness or theft

1. Has broken into someone else.s house, building or car.

2. Often lies to obtain goods or favors.

3. Has stolen items of nontrivial value without confronting the victim.

Serious violations of rules

1. Often stays out at night despite parental prohibitions, beginning before age thirteen.

2. Has run away from home at least twice while living in a parental or surrogate home.

3. Is often cutting classes, beginning before age 13.

Finally, the disturbance in behavior is causing clinically significant impairment in social, academic or occupational functioning.

If you have problems about drugs, alcohol and behavior/attitude call my office at 8206107 or 8251771 or e-mail me at gvcbuenca@vasia.com or write me at P.O. Box 2099 MCPO, Makati City.