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Abstract

A review of literature was conducted to evaluate effectiveness of nature versus nurture based therapies on children and adolescents diagnosed with conduct disorder. Physiological or nature based studies included research on the effects of 5-HT uptake in platelets, a 5-HT reuptake inhibitor called paroxetine, as well as the stimulants methylphenidate and clonidine. The 5-HT uptake study provided significant data correlating 5-HT uptake with reactive or retaliatory aggression. Environmental or nurture based studies included research on Parent Management Training, Cognitive-behavioral Therapy, and the Dina Dinosaur Treatment program. The Cognitive-behavioral therapy study identified a positive correlation between age and treatment effectiveness. The Dina Dinosaur Treatment displayed a correlation between a combination of Parent and Child Training and improvement in the home. Hans Eysenck’s biosocial theory of personality is also examined as a tool in predicting whether physiological, behavioral, or combinations of both treatments are most effective in treating conduct disorder. This study showed significant results in a multi-systemic treatment approach towards conduct disorder. Results of the studies reflect a weakness in the amount of research being conducted to determine whether therapy combined with medication produces higher effects on conduct disorder than therapy or medication alone.

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