1. What type(s) of disorder(s) is Derek displaying? What are his core symptoms? Based on the interviews directed to the clinician, father, school counselor, and detention officer, Derek appears to have a conduct disorder. Conduct problems often refer to “age-inappropriate actions and attitudes of a child that violate family expectations, societal norms, and the property rights of others” (McMahon & Estes, 1997). Through his actions and attitudes, Derek has demonstrated misconduct’s main symptoms. First, Derek committed theft when he stole the car to drive around for fun. Second, Derek was arrested for vandalizing the school’s property. Finally, Derek violated multiple serious rules for the last couple of months, such as shoplifting, vandalism, drug use, theft, and breaking and entering. In addition to these symptoms, Derek also lacked interest in multiple responsibilities, such as school work and home curfews. He often ignored what he was told by being confrontational and disrespectful towards his elders. At the end, all of these factors contribute to the criteria for conduct disorder. 2. …show more content…
How have his symptoms affect his life? Derek’s symptoms have greatly affected his life. Instead of a focusing on his education as a normal 15-year-old, Derek doesn’t go to school, but spends his time shoplifting with his friends. This behavior has lower his prospects of passing the academic year extremely low, jeopardizing going into higher education and having a career of his own in the future. In addition, his symptoms have also given him possible juvenile time. A strong sentencing can tremendously affect Derek’s future life as he won’t longer have a liberated