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OVERVIEW

What is oppositional defiant disorder?

Oppositional defiant disorder, or ODD, is a behavior condition that affects children and teens. Those who have it are angry, argumentative and defiant much more often than others in their age group. The behaviors associated with ODD have a negative effect on the child’s or teen’s relationships and ability to do well in school and at home.

SYMPTOMS

What are the symptoms of ODD?

Every child or teen gets angry, throws tantrums and argues. But it can be hard to tell if a child or teen is just acting out, or if they have ODD. The symptoms of ODD are disruptive to home and family life, are almost constant and often last for at least 6 months.

Symptoms of ODD may include:

• Frequent temper tantrums
• Constant arguing with or defying adults
• Refusing to follow rules
• Annoying other people on purpose
• Blaming others for their own mistakes or bad behavior
• Acting easily annoyed by others
• Feelings of anger and resentment toward other people
• Wanting to get revenge on others
• Problems at school
• Trouble making or keeping friends

CAUSES & RISK FACTORS

What causes ODD?

Health care providers don’t know the exact cause of ODD. It may result from a combination of factors. The child’s general attitude and how the family reacts to their behavior may play a role in it. ODD may run in families. Other causes may be related to the nervous system or to brain chemicals that are out of balance.

DIAGNOSIS & TESTS

How is ODD diagnosed?

Your health care provider will ask about your child’s symptoms, medical history, family history and other emotional or behavioral problems. Your health care provider may want to refer your child to a health professional specializing in problem behavior for a more in-depth evaluation.

PREVENTION

Can oppositional defiant disorder be prevented or avoided?

A child is more likely to develop ODD if he or she has the following risk factors:

• A history of abuse or neglect
• A parent or caretaker who has a mood disorder, or who abuses alcohol or drugs
• Exposure to violence
• Inconsistent discipline
• Lack of supervision
• Instability in the family, such as divorce, multiple moves and changing schools frequently
• Financial problems in the family
• Parents who have or have had ODD, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or behavioral problems

TREATMENT

How is ODD treated?

There are several treatment options for ODD. Some focus only on the child, while other treatments include the child’s family and school.

Your health care provider will probably work with another health professional who specializes in mental health or a psychologist to treat your child.

Treatment will focus on helping your child learn better ways to manage their anger. It will also help your child learn how to handle social situations so they will feel less frustrated with other people.

Treatment can also help families learn to communicate better with each other. And your health care provider can help you learn how to manage your child’s behavior and how to use discipline effectively.

In a treatment called cognitive behavior therapy, children and their families learn problem-solving skills and how to feel more positive.

Living with oppositional defiant disorder

You may feel helpless if your child or teen has ODD. You may feel disconnected, even if you’re participating in their therapy. But there are many ways to actively help your child at home. The following can help encourage good behavior:

• Praise your child’s or teen’s positive behaviors.
• Be consistent about rules.
• Model the behaviors you want your child to follow.
• Establish a daily routine for your child.
• Spend quality time with your child.