The classification of conduct disorders.

Empirical data comparing DSM-III and DSM-III-R criteria on conduct disorders were obtained from 100 adolescent juvenile justice center residents. The importance of an ongoing classification of childhood and adolescent psychiatric disorders, with primary emphasis on the diagnosis of conduct disorders, was stressed. Demographic and associated features were presented. DSM-III-R seemed superior to its predecessor in some respects and the severity index in particular may be useful. Direction for further classification modification was suggested.