Adjustment disorder with disturbance of conduct

This code signifies an adjustment disorder where an individual experiences significant emotional or behavioral symptoms in response to an identifiable stressor, specifically manifesting with a predominant disturbance of conduct. These conduct disturbances involve violations of the rights of others or major age-appropriate societal norms and rules. The symptoms must not meet criteria for another specific mental disorder and must resolve within six months after the stressor or its consequences have terminated.

Apply this code when documentation clearly indicates an adjustment disorder where the primary manifestation is behavioral, such as truancy, vandalism, fighting, or reckless driving, following a psychosocial stressor. The stressor should be identifiable, and the behavioral symptoms should represent a maladaptive response to it. Ensure the onset of symptoms occurred within three months of the stressor.

• Differentiate from other conduct disorders (F91.x) which are typically more pervasive and not directly tied to a recent identifiable stressor.
• Ensure the documentation specifies "with disturbance of conduct" to support this specific subtype of adjustment disorder.
• Code the specific stressor (e.g., Z63.x for family problems, Z60.x for problems related to social environment) as an additional diagnosis, if known and documented.