Children diagnosed with conduct disorder (CD), a condition characterized by behaviors such as aggression and rule-breaking, often diagnosed in childhood or adolescence, exhibit significant structural differences in their brains compared to typically developing children, according to a comprehensive international study. Despite affecting approximately 3% of children globally, CD remains less studied than disorders like ADHD or autism.
Children with CD have reduced cortical surface area
Conducted by researchers from the Universities of Bath and Birmingham, alongside international collaborators, the study analyzed MRI data from 1,185 children with CD and 1,253 typically developing peers. Their findings, published in The Lancet Psychiatry, reveal notable reductions in cortical surface area across various brain regions in children with CD, suggesting atypical brain development. Additionally, reductions in volume were observed in subcortical regions, underscoring widespread structural differences.
Lead researcher Dr. Yidian Gao emphasizes the study’s unprecedented scale, incorporating diverse cohorts from North America, Europe, and Asia, and utilizing standardized methodologies through the ENIGMA Consortium. The research marks a significant advancement in understanding CD’s neurological underpinnings, independent of comorbidities like ADHD.
The findings highlight distinct brain structural alterations, particularly in areas crucial for behavioural regulation, such as the prefrontal cortex and amygdala. These changes were particularly pronounced in children exhibiting callous-unemotional traits, characterized by reduced empathy and shallow affect.
CD transcends cultural boundaries
Importantly, CD’s impact transcends cultural boundaries, affecting children globally and imposing substantial burdens on healthcare systems due to associated mental health complexities. Dr. Graeme Fairchild underscores the urgent need for increased research funding comparable to ADHD and autism, stressing the disorder’s significant societal costs.
Looking ahead, researchers aim to delve deeper into potential causal factors behind these brain differences and explore CD’s implications for long-term mental health outcomes. Dr. Stephane De Brito emphasizes the role of childhood adversities in shaping these structural changes and underscores the importance of early intervention and support for affected children and their families.
In conclusion, while much remains to be understood about CD’s origins and optimal treatments, this study represents a crucial step towards recognizing and addressing the neurological underpinnings of this often-overlooked disorder.
