What are social behaviour disorders?

Social behaviour disorders are types of mental health disorders. They usually begin in childhood but can sometimes continue into adulthood. They may affect:

• social skills — difficulty interacting with others in a positive way
• behaviour — acting out or breaking rules
• relationships — trouble getting along with family, caregivers, friends and teachers
• surroundings — struggling to behave in different situations such as school or home

These disorders are also sometimes known as antisocial behaviour. Recognising and treating antisocial behaviour early is important. It can prevent more serious issues later in life.

What are the types of social behaviour disorders?

The different types of social behaviour disorders affect how people interact with others. It can cause challenges in daily life. Here are the main types.

Oppositional defiant disorder (ODD)

ODD means having angry, irritable moods and defiant (stubborn) behaviour for at least 6 months. The main signs and symptoms include:

• often feeling angry and losing temper
• arguing with parents, caregivers, teachers or other adults
• stubbornness and refusing to follow rules on purpose
• trying to annoy or upset others on purpose
• testing and pushing limits on purpose
• blaming others for problems or mistakes

Signs usually show up in preschool years. They can become more noticeable in early teenage years.

Intermittent explosive disorder (IED)

IED means having sudden and strong bursts of anger that are out of proportion to the situation. The main signs and symptoms include:

• frequent and sudden aggressive verbal or physical outbursts
• constant feeling of irritability or anger
• acting aggressively without thinking

These behaviours can be difficult for your child to manage. Signs usually show up in late childhood or early teenage years. IED can also continue or start in early adulthood.

Conduct disorder (CD)

CD involves a pattern of negative behaviour that harms others and break rules. The main signs and symptoms include:

• aggressive or violent behaviour
• destroying or breaking things
• lying or stealing
• breaking serious rules

Signs usually show up in late childhood or early teenage years. If signs start before age 10 years, there is a higher chance of long-term behavioural problems.

Pyromania

Pyromania is rare antisocial behaviour. It is when you have a strong urge to set fires and are fascinated by fire. The main signs and symptoms include:

• setting fires on purpose
• feeling tense or excited before starting a fire
• intense interest in fire and fire-related objects
• feeling pleasure or relief after the fire is set

Pyromania can start in early teenage years and continue into adulthood.

Kleptomania

Kleptomania means having a strong and uncontrollable urge to steal things. The main signs and symptoms include:

• a repeated urge to steal items you don’t need for personal use or financial gain
• feeling tense before stealing
• feeling relief or pleasure during the theft
• feeling guilt or shame after the theft

Kleptomania can start in childhood, early teenage years or adulthood.

What causes social behaviour disorders?

Antisocial behaviour can be caused by a mix of different factors. Some examples include the following:

• Genetics — you are more likely to develop antisocial behaviour if a close family member has a mental health issue.
• Personality — some people are naturally more active or have stronger emotional reactions. ADHD can also make antisocial behaviour more intense and harder to manage.
• Brain development problems — these can make it harder for children to control their behaviour. Examples are autism spectrum disorder and fetal alcohol spectrum disorder.
• Intellectual disabilities — some people with intellectual disabilities find it hard to understand and follow rules.
• Mental health issues — these may make antisocial behaviour more intense, for example depression or anxiety.

Tough living conditions

Children growing up in tough living conditions have a bigger risk of developing antisocial behaviour. Examples include:

• growing up in a home with financial worries
• exposure to drugs and alcohol
• dealing with neglect or abuse
• inconsistent parenting or moving between caregivers a lot

If you think a child is being abused, report it to a child protection authority.

When should I see my doctor?

See your doctor if you are concerned that you or your child are showing signs of social behaviour disorder. Some difficult behaviours are normal in young children and teenagers. If you don’t get the help you need from your doctor, ask for a referral to another service — for example, a psychologist or other mental health professional.

It’s important to seek professional help for a check-up and support if:

• the behaviour causes problems at home, school or with friends
• you think you or your child may have a social behaviour disorder

How are social behaviour disorders diagnosed?

Diagnosis often involves a few steps, which may involve working with:

• doctors, psychologists and/or psychiatrists
• social workers and teachers
• family members or caregivers

When diagnosing social behaviour disorders in children, steps may include the following:

• Talking to people — your doctor will talk to your child, parents and sometimes teachers. This is to learn about your child's behaviour and feelings.
• Watching your child — your doctor may observe how your child behaves at home or school.
• Medical history check — your doctor will look at your child's medical and family history.
• Assessments — your doctor may refer your child to specialists to assess your child's learning skills and behaviour.

Your doctor will check for specific disorders before making a diagnosis. They will also rule out other mental health issues.

How are social behaviour disorders treated?

Treating antisocial behaviour involves a combination of methods. This combination helps people improve their behaviour and feel better.

Here are some common ways to treat social behaviour disorders:

Therapy and counselling

• Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) — helps change negative thoughts and behaviours.
• Dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT) — teaches skills to manage stress and emotions.
• Family therapy — helps family members to improve communication and support.

Medicines

Medicines may help treat the factors that make antisocial behaviour more intense. There are many different examples, including medicines for ADHD, depression and anxiety. Sometimes, these medicines may help manage mood swings or aggressive behaviour.

Early treatment

Early diagnosis and treatment are important. Treating antisocial behaviour early can:

• prevent it from getting worse
• improve relationships and skills
• prevent mental health issues such as antisocial personality disorder from developing in adulthood

Untreated antisocial behaviour can affect children and their parents or caregivers. Children with antisocial behaviour are more likely to:

• abuse drugs and alcohol
• have interactions with police and other legal issues
• have challenges in school, leading to dropping out of school and long-term unemployment
• have issues that need intervention from child protection services

Living with a social behaviour disorder

Living with a social behaviour disorder can be challenging, both for the person affected and their families or caregivers. Read on for some tips that may help you.

For people living with a social behaviour disorder

• Follow your doctor’s recommendations, which may include therapy or a medicine plan.
• Learn techniques such as mindfulness and physical activity to handle strong emotions.
• Surround yourself with supportive people.

For families and caregivers

• Early diagnosis can help the behaviour from getting worse.
• Set clear and consistent rules at home to help your child understand what’s expected.
• Praise and reward good behaviour to motivate your child.
• Be patient and try not to get frustrated when your child acts out.
• Spend quality time together to strengthen your relationship.
• Remember to look after your own health and wellbeing too.

Living with antisocial behaviour takes ongoing effort and support. With the right strategies and resources, it is possible to manage symptoms.

Resources and support

Healthdirect offers valuable information on mental health including:

• guidance on understanding the Australian mental health system
• resources for teenagers and children's mental health
• supporting someone with a mental illness

You can also call the healthdirect helpline on 1800 022 222 (known as NURSE-ON-CALL in Victoria). A registered nurse is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Other languages

Health Resource Directory provides translated information on behavioural disorders in children and young adults, available in Arabic, Chinese, and Vietnamese.