Fetal exposure to substance can lead to maldevelopment of fetus. These children are in higher risk of developmental issues. Also lack of nutrition, premature birth, potential childhood exposure to toxins all can lead to poor brain function and unhealthy development in children. These consequently contribute to higher risk in ADHD, poor life skill, social rejection and other factors that are potential risk to development of CD and ASPD.

Nutrition factors in CD

Past studies had hinted the heritability of antisocial traits. Twin studies found that more monozygotic twins show higher level of antisocial behaviors than dizygotic twins. Moreover, in a meta-analysis of twin adoption study,  researchers found that 50% of the variance found in measures of antisocial behaviors can be ascribed to genetic effects. 

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To prevent the development of conduct disorder into antisocial personality disorder, risk factors are recognized and sorted into following categories:

1. Intrinsic individual differences
2. Psychosocial and familial factors
3. Genetic and nutritional factors
4. Neurochemical factors

Risk factors of conduct disorder

Holmes, S., Slaughter, J., & Kashani, J. (2004). Risk Factors in Childhood That Lead to the Development of Conduct Disorder and Antisocial Personality Disorder. Child Psychiatry and Human Development, 31(3), 183-193.

Risk Factors of CD and ASPD

Studies indicated that low level of central serotonin is positively correlated with aggression, impulsivity and hyperactivity. Low level of dopamine is related to mood complication/swing and lack of attention. When these two neurotransmitter are insufficient, people are more likely to develop CD and ASPD.

Neurochemical factors in CD

Peer relation is one of the factor that has direct influence on child development. Factors like childhood aggression, social withdrawal, and lack of social skills can contribute to peer rejection. This rejection leads a child away from prosocial peer groups and toward antisocial peers. Under peer influence, risk of substance abuse and other delinquencies increase. 

Psychosocial factors in CD (1)

Genetic factors in CD

ADHD is one of the most highly related predisposing factor of antisocial behaviors. The hyperactivity component in ADHD and impulsivity can easily lead to cognitive deficiency and poor peer relationship. 

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