Adjustment disorder with disturbance of conduct

This diagnosis code signifies an emotional or behavioral reaction to an identifiable psychosocial stressor that develops within three months of the stressor's onset. The disturbance is characterized by a pattern of behavior that violates the rights of others or major age-appropriate societal norms and rules. This reaction is clinically significant, causing marked distress or significant impairment in social or occupational functioning.

Apply this code when a patient presents with maladaptive behavioral symptoms, such as truancy, vandalism, fighting, or defiance, directly following a stressful life event (e.g., parental divorce, school problems, relocation). Documentation should clearly link the onset of these conduct disturbances to a specific stressor and indicate that the symptoms are not merely an exacerbation of a pre-existing mental disorder.

• Ensure the documentation specifies a clear psychosocial stressor and a temporal relationship to the onset of conduct issues.
• Differentiate from Conduct Disorder (312.xx) by the acute onset in response to a stressor and the expectation of remission once the stressor is removed or the individual adapts.
• Avoid using if the symptoms meet criteria for another specific Axis I disorder or are part of normal bereavement.