A fifteen-year-old was referred to the adolescent mental health clinic after being arrested for prostitution. The client’s parents reported that they have run away several times and are abusive towards them. The nurse should anticipate that the diagnosis will be:

Conduct DisorderChoice A Reason: Childhood DepressionChildhood depression is a mood disorder characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of interest in activities. Symptoms can include changes in appetite, sleep disturbances, and difficulty concentrating. While depression can lead to behavioral issues, it is less likely to be associated with the specific behaviors described in the scenario, such as running away and being abusive towards parents. These behaviors are more indicative of a disruptive behavior disorder rather than a mood disorder.Choice B Reason: Oppositional Defiant DisorderOppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) is characterized by a pattern of angry, irritable mood, argumentative/defiant behavior, or vindictiveness. Children with ODD often lose their temper, argue with adults, and refuse to comply with rules. While ODD can involve some of the behaviors described, such as being abusive towards parents, it typically does not include the more severe behaviors like running away or engaging in illegal activities such as prostitution. Therefore, ODD is not the most fitting diagnosis in this case.Choice C Reason: Conduct DisorderConduct Disorder is a more severe behavioral disorder characterized by a repetitive and persistent pattern of behavior that violates the rights of others or major age-appropriate societal norms or rules. Symptoms include aggression towards people and animals, destruction of property, deceitfulness or theft, and serious violations of rules, such as running away from home and engaging in illegal activities like prostitution. Given the behaviors described in the scenario, Conduct Disorder is the most appropriate diagnosis. Adolescents with Conduct Disorder often exhibit a lack of remorse or guilt and may have a history of problematic behaviors that escalate over time.Choice D Reason: Autism Spectrum DisorderAutism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental disorder characterized by difficulties with social interaction, communication, and repetitive behaviors. While individuals with ASD may exhibit challenging behaviors, these are typically related to difficulties in understanding social norms and communication rather than intentional defiance or rule-breaking. The behaviors described in the scenario, such as running away and engaging in prostitution, are not characteristic of ASD, making it an unlikely diagnosis in this context.