Childhood onset conduct disorder: Breaking the cycle of crime and violence early though the implementation of the Koolkids school-based interactive intervention program

There exists a distinct subgroup of children in mainstream primary schooling characterized by childhood onset conduct disorder (COCD) and the presence of callous unemotional traits (CU). This combination places them at increased risk of suspension and exclusion from school and on a developmental trajectory leading to educational failure, criminal behaviour, and substance abuse. The added presence of CU traits also presents a treatment challenge because children with COCD and CU often do not respond positively to typical treatments.

Forty nine children with COCD completed KooLKIDS, a 12 week school-based
interactive intervention program specifically developed for 7-11 year olds with COCD. Teacher- and child-self-rated assessment revealed significant reductions in dimensions of aggression and antisocial traits. Significant improvements were also evident on measures of emotional intensity and peer acceptance. These findings suggest KooLKIDS is a promising treatment for breaking the established cycle early, and with it the trajectory towards more serious antisocial and violent criminal behaviour.