What distinguishes conduct disorder from oppositional defiant disorder?

Conduct disorder is characterized by a more severe pattern of behavior compared to oppositional defiant disorder. The key distinction lies in the presence of physical aggression towards others. Individuals with conduct disorder often engage in aggressive acts that can result in physical harm to people or animals, as well as serious violations of rules and societal norms. This can include fighting, bullying, and other forms of physical confrontations.

In contrast, oppositional defiant disorder typically includes behaviors such as being argumentative, defiant, and annoying without the level of physical aggression that is seen in conduct disorder. While individuals with oppositional defiant disorder may engage in angry and resentful behaviors, argue with adults, or intentionally annoy others, these actions do not rise to the level of physical aggression that characterizes conduct disorder. Thus, the presence of physical aggression is a crucial differentiator between the two disorders.