Oppositional defiant disorder (ODD)

Oppositional defiant disorder (ODD) is a diagnosis used to describe certain kinds of disruptive behavior. While all kids can act up from time to time, children and adolescents with ODD consistently argue with authority figures, ignore rules and seek revenge.

Parents and caregivers often struggle with how to handle theses extreme behavior problems. Aurora understands oppositional defiant disorder is a condition and not a reflection on parenting style or a child’s personality. If your child's pattern of behavior is negatively affecting their lives – or yours – it may be time to ask your doctors about ODD.

Oppositional defiant disorder (ODD) symptoms

Children with characteristics of oppositional defiant disorder show frequent negative, angry and defiant behaviors – especially with parents, teachers and other authority figures.

What does oppositional defiant disorder look like in children?

Children with ODD often struggle with daily routines. Transitions between activities may involve your child arguing or refusing to cooperate.

Vindictive behaviors and outbursts of anger may fall on both peers and authority figures, which can make it hard for your child to form or retain friendships.

Symptoms of oppositional defiant disorder (ODD) may include:

• Moodiness, anger, irritability and resentfulness
• Refusal to follow rules or comply with requests
• Spite and vengeance
• Loss of temper
• Excessive arguing with authority figures
• Blaming others for their mistakes
• Saying mean and hateful things when upset

Such symptoms must have occurred for at least six months and usually become apparent between the ages of 6 and 8. The diagnosis is applied to children younger than 18. Different diagnoses apply when children become adults.

Risk factors for oppositional defiant disorder (ODD)

Like other mental health disorders, ODD can be caused by a combination of genetic, family and social factors. Children with oppositional defiant disorder may have inherited chemical imbalances in the brain that make them more prone to the disorder.

Other risk factors for ODD include:

• Inconsistent parental attention and discipline
• Low socioeconomic status
• Marital conflict between parents
• Child abuse or neglect
• Brain injuries
• Having a close family member with a mood disorder, conduct disorder, attention deficit disorder or substance abuse disorder

Conditions that can coexist with ODD

Children with ODD often have other behavior problems (comorbidities) going on at the same time. Things like depression, anxiety, learning disabilities, communication disorders or attention deficit disorder (ADD) can contribute to your child’s tendency to be defiant.

Children with oppositional defiant disorder sometimes go on to develop conduct disorder which includes aggression toward others and more serious violations of rules that may involve breaking the law.

Diagnosis of ODD

When you’re wondering about your child’s behavior, the best place to start is with their pediatrician – a doctor that knows your child and has their medical history on file.

They can start by looking for any physical factors. They’ll do a complete physical exam and may order imaging studies or blood tests if they suspect there may be a physical reason for the behavior problems. They’ll also look for signs of things like depression and ADD.

If they can’t find a physical cause, they’ll probably refer you to a qualified psychiatrist or psychologist who has experience and training in diagnosing and treating children. The mental health specialist will use screening and interview procedures with you and your child to gather the information needed for a diagnosis.

With an accurate diagnosis, your child’s mental health specialist will work with you to develop an individual treatment plan for your child that meets their needs.

ODD services & treatments

Therapy and clinical treatment with Aurora’s child and adolescent behavioral health team can significantly help families facing ODD.

We offer child and adolescent day treatment for families affected by oppositional defiant disorder. Through a combination of medication, therapy and education, you and your child can learn to manage the symptoms of ODD. Our therapists will teach your child social skills and give them problem-solving tools

We'll also work with you to create a home life based on appropriate discipline, consistent attention and loving support. Getting regular physical activity, eating a healthful diet and getting enough sleep are also important for children who have ODD.

Call 414-454-6600 to schedule a consultation for your child to see how we can help them overcome their symptoms of oppositional defiant disorder or find a behavioral health & addiction specialist near you.

We’re here to offer hope and help.