Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD)

Definition:
Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) is a behavioral disorder that is characterized by aggressive, defiant, negativistic, irritable and annoying behaviors towards peers and authority figures, such as parents and teachers. 

The causes of ODD are unknown however there are two main theories:

• The developmental theory suggests that the behaviors begin when children are toddlers.  This theory also suggests that the child had difficulties separating from their attachment figure and establishing independent skills.  The negative behaviors are seen as a continuation of normal developmental issues that were not resolved when the child was a toddler. 
• The other theory of ODD is a learning theory that suggests that the negative behaviors are learned by replicating the negative reinforcement techniques that were used by parents and authority figures.  The use of negative reinforcement by parents is understood as increasing the rate and intensity of these behaviors because the child receives attention, time and concern from the parent or other authority figures. 

ODD effects 10% to 15% of children and adolescents and is more common in males than females.  The diagnosis of ODD is usually made before the age of eight but no later than adolescents.  ODD can also occur with conditions, such as Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and Conduct Disorder, which can make the intensity and management of behavior more troublesome. 

Symptoms of Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD):

It is normal for children to exhibit some symptoms of ODD at particular stages of their development.  Children with ODD are not simply defiant children, they exhibit these behaviors persistently, for a considerable amount of time and is clearly disruptive at school, home or work settings.  Symptoms of ODD include a pattern of negative, hostile and defiant behavior which has lasted for six months.

The symptoms of ODD may include:

• Often loses temper
• Often argues with adults
• Always defies or refuses to comply with adult’s requests or rules
• Frequently and intentionally annoys people
• Blames others for his or her own mistakes or misbehavior
• Regularly touchy or easily annoyed by people
• Is often angry or resentful
• Spiteful or vindictive

It is important to note for a child to be considered to have ODD the behaviors should occur more frequently than individuals of the same age and developmental level.  Additionally, the disturbance of behavior impairs social, academic or occupational functioning.  Always consult the appropriate medical professionals for a diagnosis.

Treatment for Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD):

Oppositional defiant disorder treatment varies based on age, current health conditions and medical history.  The severity of the symptoms and the future outlook of ODD are important factors in deciding a treatment plan.  Additionally, your opinion or preference and the child’s tolerance to particular medications, procedures, or therapies are also vital to the treatment plan.  Following is a list of treatments that are common in dealing with ODD:

• Medication
• It is reported that medication is not usually effective in treating ODD.  However medication may be used if there are other disorders or symptoms present.
   
• Individual psychotherapy
• The suggested psychotherapy for ODD involves a cognitive behavioral approach.  This type of psychotherapy involves improving the child or adolescent’s problem solving skills, communication skills, impulse control and anger management skills.
   
• Family therapy
• This approach tries to works on making modifying the systems within the family.  Techniques such as improving communication skills and interaction within the family.  Family therapy would also offer support and understanding for parents as well as working on effective parenting techniques. 
• Some parenting techniques include giving effective time-outs
• Avoid power struggles
• Remain calm and collect
• Offer appropriate praise and consequences to good and bad behavior
• Give choices or options for your child to choose from to help control your child
   
• Group therapy
• This helps the defiant child develop their interpersonal, social and communication skills.

Parents at home can help their child with ODD by:

• Acknowledging and praising your child’s good behavior
• Choosing which battles you want to enter
• Create household chores or duties for the child and a daily schedule
• Set limits for your child
• Model the positive behavior
• With your partner work together to give consistent and appropriate punishments
• Establish clear boundaries

A defiant teen or a defiant child can make it emotionally draining for the parents, so for your own wellbeing counseling may help.  Also you can learn ways to reduce stress and take some time for yourself.  Don’t forget to be forgiving, forget what your child did yesterday and start each day fresh.