Can hyperactivity in ADHD lead to conduct disorders?

PostedAugust 25, 2025

UpdatedSeptember 5, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

Author: Victoria Rowe, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Some children and adolescents with ADHD may develop conduct disorder, a serious condition marked by ongoing behaviour problems. such as aggression, lying, stealing, and repeatedly breaking rules. While not everyone with ADHD develops conduct disorder, hyperactivity and impulsivity can increase the likelihood of rule-breaking ADHD behaviours over time.

Understanding this connection helps parents, teachers, and clinicians recognise early warning signs and provide support before behaviours turn into more serious aggression or legal issues.

How ADHD Can Contribute to Conduct Disorder

Here are some ways hyperactivity in ADHD may lead to conduct disorder, and strategies to help mitigate these risks:

Unchecked Impulsivity

When impulsivity is not managed, it can turn into reckless or harmful actions. Behavioural therapy, structure, and consistent consequences can teach self-control.

Frustration and Aggression

Hyperactive children often struggle with emotional regulation, which can appear as verbal or physical aggression. Anger management techniques and family therapy can reduce these reactions.

Habitual Rule-Breaking

Without support, small misbehaviours can grow into bigger problems, like refusing to follow rules or ignoring other people’s rights. Helping early and praising good behaviour is very important.

Spotting the signs of conduct disorder early and addressing them alongside ADHD symptoms leads to better outcomes and healthier relationships. Visit providers like ADHD Certify for personal consultations and tailored strategies.

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Hyperactivity.

Victoria Rowe, MSc

Author

Victoria Rowe is a health psychologist with a Master’s in Health Psychology and a BS in Applied Psychology. She has experience as a school psychologist, conducting behavioural assessments, developing individualized education plans (IEPs), and supporting children’s mental health. Dr. Rowe has contributed to peer-reviewed research on mental health, including studies on anxiety disorders and the impact of COVID-19 on healthcare systems. Skilled in SPSS, Minitab, and academic writing, she is committed to advancing psychological knowledge and promoting well-being through evidence-based practice.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the author's privacy.

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Reviewer

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez is a UK-trained physician with an MBBS and experience in general surgery, cardiology, internal medicine, gynecology, intensive care, and emergency medicine. She has managed critically ill patients, stabilised acute trauma cases, and provided comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care. In psychiatry, Dr. Fernandez has worked with psychotic, mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, applying evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based therapies. Her skills span patient assessment, treatment planning, and the integration of digital health solutions to support mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the reviewer's privacy.