Investigation of Relationship with God among Adolescents with Conduct Disorder: A Qualitative Content Analysis

Objective: Conduct disorder is characterized by aggressive behavior, cheating or theft, destruction of property, and serious violation of laws before the age of 18. Relationship with God is probably one of the factors that can play a role in preventing delinquent behaviors in individuals with conduct disorder through internal self-control. In this research, we intended to explore the relationship with God among adolescents with conduct disorder. Method : In this study, we used a directed qualitative content analysis research method. We interviewed 9 boys aged 12-17 years who had conduct disorder with or without substance use disorder at a correctional facility in Tehran. We collected the data using a purposive sampling method and continued until data saturation. All interviews were recorded and then transcribed verbatim. The interviews were analyzed using a content analysis method. Results: The boys' relationship with God was analyzed. Three themes were extracted from the interviews: 1) Perception of God, 2) Image of God, and 3) Worship. Conclusion: This study highlighted three main themes: Perception of God, Image of God, and Worship, which shape how adolescents with conduct disorder relate to spirituality. These findings can contribute to the development of culturally appropriate, faith-based therapeutic interventions.