Which feature is most characteristic of conduct disorder but not of ODD?

• A. Violations of the basic rights of others
• B. Defiant attitudes toward authority figures
• C. Arguing with caregivers at home
• D. Recurrent temper outbursts in school

Answer: (A)

Conduct disorder is defined by more severe and pervasive violations of others’ rights and the law. The hallmark distinguishing feature is patterns of aggression toward people or animals, destruction of property, deceit/theft, and serious rule violations—behaviors that directly violate the rights of others. These types of actions reflect a level of conduct impairment beyond what is typically seen in Oppositional Defiant Disorder, which centers on a persistent pattern of angry/irritable mood, argumentative or defiant behavior, and vindictiveness toward authority figures but not necessarily harm to others’ rights. So the statement about violations of basic rights of others best captures what is characteristic of conduct disorder and not of ODD.