Conduct Disorder: Etiology and Recovery

Abstract

Conduct Disorder (CD) is a severe behavioral and mental health condition characterized by persistent aggression, rule violations, and property destruction that can lead to long-term academic failure, substance misuse, and juvenile justice involvement. Conventional clinical interventions, including psychological treatments and family-based programs, frequently yield only modest effect sizes in mitigating severe conduct problems, leaving clinicians and families with limited therapeutic options for treatment-resistant cases. This study investigates an alternative non-material explanatory framework through the Guan Yin Citta Dharma Door, examining how metaphysical causes of karmic debt and spirit (ghost) attachment contribute to CD. By exploring narrative exemplars and clinical case presentations, we evaluate the implementation of the Five Golden Buddhist Practices as a complementary approach that can achieve behavioral stabilization, the cessation of violence, and successful academic reintegration. This study suggests that CD may be understood as a spiritual disorder that should be addressed by helping the spirit to ascend and removing the underlying karma.