Conduct-disordered boys were being seen in outpatient therapy. Boys ranged in age from 3 to 8 years old. The groups did not differ significantly in overall behavioral distress as measured by the total number of behavior problems. However, there were significant differences in the pattern of the disturbance. The conduct-disordered/oppositional group was significantly more aggressive, while the sexually abused group was significantly more sexualized and less externalizing. A discriminant analysis correctly classified 87.5 percent of the cases. The hypersexuality exhibited by these boys, most of whom had been incest victims, may reflect the child's continuing distress about the abuse. Finally, differences between the groups may represent variables other than abuse, such as family disruption following discovery of the abuse. 2 tables and 10 references.