Supporting Children with Conduct Disorder through Walking and Therapy

Conduct Disorder (CD) in children and adolescents is characterised by persistent patterns of aggressive or disruptive behaviour, such as defiance, rule-breaking, and difficulty managing emotions. These behaviours can be challenging for both the children and their families, as they impact school, home, and social relationships. Traditional therapy is effective, but outdoor walking therapy offers a unique, engaging approach for young people. In this blog, we’ll explore the advantages of walking therapy for children with Conduct Disorder, how the natural setting provides a relaxed environment for positive change, and how movement can help reduce behavioural issues.

Why Walking Therapy Works for Young People with Conduct Disorder

For young people, sitting still in a typical therapy setting may feel confining or even intimidating, especially when they are asked to discuss their emotions or behaviours. Walking therapy, which involves moving alongside a therapist in an outdoor or familiar setting, creates a more relaxed environment that feels less formal and more comfortable.

Here’s why outdoor walking therapy can be particularly beneficial for children with Conduct Disorder:

• Movement Reduces Tension: Physical activity provides a way to release pent-up energy and ease tension, making it easier to engage with therapy.

• Less Confrontational Setting: Walking side-by-side rather than face-to-face reduces the pressure some children feel when discussing their behaviours.

• Nature’s Calming Effects: The natural surroundings help reduce stress and promote calmness, which can make it easier for children to process emotions and engage positively.

By combining movement, a calming environment, and therapeutic support, walking therapy offers an effective and accessible way for young people to address their behaviour and develop healthy coping skills.

How Walking Therapy Benefits Children with Conduct Disorder

1. Provides a Positive Outlet for Energy

   • Many children with Conduct Disorder have high energy levels or struggle to remain still. Walking therapy offers a productive way to release energy, reducing feelings of restlessness that can lead to impulsive behaviour.

2. Promotes Emotional Regulation

   • Walking therapy encourages children to focus on their surroundings, body sensations, and breathing, which helps them manage intense emotions. This mindfulness practice builds emotional awareness, making it easier to recognise and regulate anger, frustration, or impulsivity before it escalates.

3. Encourages Open Communication

   • The informal nature of walking therapy creates a more comfortable space for children to share their thoughts and feelings without the constraints of a traditional therapy room. Walking side-by-side fosters a feeling of partnership, making it easier for children to open up about their experiences and emotions.

4. Builds a Routine that Reinforces Positive Behaviour

   • Routine is especially helpful for young people with Conduct Disorder, as it reinforces structure and predictability. Regular walking therapy sessions provide a consistent time to focus on positive behaviour, setting a foundation for more constructive interactions outside of therapy.

5. Promotes Self-Compassion and Personal Growth

   • Children with Conduct Disorder may experience self-criticism or frustration with their own behaviour. Walking therapy helps them explore self-compassion, with affirmations such as “I am working on controlling my actions” or “I can make positive choices.” Practising self-compassion helps reduce self-blame and encourages personal growth.

6. Encourages Reflection on Triggers and Responses

   • Walking therapy provides a non-confrontational space to explore triggers that may lead to behavioural issues, such as frustration with peers or difficulties at home. With a therapist’s support, children can reflect on these triggers, discuss alternative responses, and gradually develop more constructive ways to respond to challenges.

7. Reduces Hyperactivity and Aggression through Physical Activity

   • For young people with Conduct Disorder, physical activity can help reduce hyperactivity and aggressive tendencies. Walking channels energy in a positive way, helping children feel calmer and less impulsive, which contributes to improved self-control.

8. Increases Self-Awareness and Empathy

   • As children walk with a therapist, they can explore the impact of their actions on others. This discussion helps develop self-awareness and empathy, both of which are essential in learning to respect others and manage interpersonal relationships.

9. Sets Small, Achievable Goals for Success

   • Achieving small goals during walking therapy, like practising deep breathing or focusing on positive interactions, helps children see their progress. Recognising these small victories reinforces self-esteem, motivation, and a commitment to making positive changes.

   
   

Why Nature and Movement Together Support Behavioural Change

Being outdoors adds a calming element to walking therapy that can enhance its effectiveness for young people. Nature reduces stress, promotes relaxation, and encourages a sense of curiosity and discovery, making it easier for children to feel safe and open to change. Spending time outdoors can also help children feel connected to their surroundings, providing a grounding experience that supports emotional stability.

Nature and movement together make walking therapy engaging, helping children stay focused and lessening the need for behavioural interventions in structured environments.

Building Long-Term Positive Behaviour through Routine

For young people with Conduct Disorder, establishing a regular routine with walking therapy can make a world of difference. Knowing there’s a set time each week dedicated to exploring emotions, addressing behavioural issues, and reinforcing positive habits creates a foundation for long-term growth. This structure can help children feel more in control of their actions and give them a reliable space to practice self-regulation skills.

With consistent sessions, walking therapy can help reinforce positive behaviours, build emotional resilience, and create a supportive pathway to personal growth.

Final Thoughts

Walking therapy offers a natural, compassionate approach to supporting children with Conduct Disorder. By combining physical activity, nature, and therapeutic guidance, children can develop healthier ways of managing their emotions and behaviour. The side-by-side format of walking therapy reduces the pressure of traditional therapy, making it a comfortable, accessible option for young people.

If you or someone you know is caring for a child with Conduct Disorder, consider walking therapy as a supportive tool to build emotional resilience, reinforce positive behaviour, and foster growth. Remember, each step forward is a step toward a brighter future.