Which behavior is a typical criterion of Conduct Disorder?

• A. Destruction of property
• B. Depression
• C. Social withdrawal
• D. Excessive calmness under pressure

Answer: (A)

Conduct Disorder is defined by a pattern of violating the rights of others or major age-appropriate societal norms. Destruction of property is a classic example of this pattern because it directly shows a serious breach of property rights and social rules, reflecting the externalizing, rule-breaking behavior central to the disorder. This type of behavior is observable, typically persistent, and contributes to impairment in functioning, which is why it serves as a typical diagnostic criterion.

Depression, social withdrawal, and being unusually calm under pressure aren’t characteristic features of Conduct Disorder. They align more with mood disorders or anxiety-related patterns, not the externalizing, rule-violating cluster that defines this disorder.