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Definition

Oppositional defiant disorder is a pattern of disobedient, hostile, and defiant behavior toward authority figures.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors

This disorder is more common in boys than in girls. Some studies have shown that it affects 20% of school-age children. However, most experts believe this figure is high due to changing definitions of normal childhood behavior, and possible racial, cultural, and gender biases.

This behavior typically starts by age 8, but it may start as early as the preschool years. This disorder is thought to be caused by a combination of biological, psychological, and social factors.

Symptoms
  • Actively does not follow adults' requests
  • Angry and resentful of others
  • Argues with adults
  • Blames others for own mistakes
  • Has few or no friends or has lost friends
  • Is in constant trouble in school
  • Loses temper
  • Spiteful or seeks revenge
  • Touchy or easily annoyed

To fit this diagnosis, the pattern must last for at least 6 months and must be more than normal childhood misbehavior.

The pattern of behaviors must be different from those of other children around the same age and developmental level. The behavior must lead to significant problems in school or social activities.

Signs and tests

Children with symptoms of this disorder should be evaluated by a psychiatrist or psychologist. In children and adolescents, the following conditions can cause similar behavior problems and should be considered as possibilities:

Treatment

The best treatment for the child is to talk with a mental health professional in individual and possibly family therapy. The parents should also learn how to manage the child's behavior.

Medications may also be helpful, especially if the behaviors occur as part of another condition (such as depression, childhood psychosis, or ADHD).

Expectations (prognosis)

Some children respond well to treatment, while others do not.

Complications

In many cases, children with oppositional defiant disorder grow up to have conduct disorder as teenagers or adults. In some cases children may grow up to have antisocial personality disorder.

Calling your health care provider

Call your health care provider if you have concerns about your child's development or behavior.

Prevention

Be consistent about rules and consequences at home. Don't make punishments too harsh or inconsistent.

Model the right behaviors for your child. Abuse and neglect increase the chances that this condition will occur.

References

Steiner H, Remsing L, Work Group on Quality Issues. Practice parameter for the assessment and treatment of children and adolescents with oppositional defiant disorder. J Am Acad Child Adolesc Psychiatry. 2007;46:126-141.

Reviewed By

Review Date: 01/30/2010

Neil K. Kaneshiro, MD, MHA, Clinical Assistant Professor of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine; and Michelle Benger Merrill, MD, Instructor in Clinical Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY. Also reviewed byDavid Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

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Related Questions

When was oppositional defiant disorder discovered?

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What does ODD in child care stand for?

Oppositional Defiant Disorder.


Who discovered oppositional defiant disorder?

Cassidy Todd in 1990


Is oppositional defiant disorder an axis 1 diagnosis?

Yes, oppositional defiant disorder is typically classified under Axis I in the DSM-IV-TR. However, with the introduction of the DSM-5, the multi-axial system has been replaced, and oppositional defiant disorder is now simply considered a mental health disorder without a specific axis designation.


What is the prognosis for oppositional defiant disorder?

The outcome varies. In some children the disorder evolves into a conduct disorder or a mood disorder. Later in life, oppositional defiant disorder can develop into passive aggressive personality disorder or antisocial personality disorder


A person who can't hear is called what?

There is a disorder for that called Oppositional Defiant Disorder. I have it.


How is oppositional defiant disorder diagnosed?

While psychological testing may be needed, the doctor must examine and talk with the child, talk with the parents, and review the medical history. Diagnosis is complicated because oppositional defiant disorder rarely travels alone


Why am i losing my temper all of the time?

you may have Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD). losing tempers is one of the symptoms of this disorder.


What does the medical abbreviation ODD mean?

ODD stands for oppositional defiant disorder in medical terminology.


What diagnosis is appropriate for a boy who is described as negative defiant disobedient and hostile?

This boy may exhibit symptoms of Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) characterized by a pattern of negative, hostile, and defiant behavior toward authority figures. A thorough evaluation by a mental health professional is needed for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan.


What is Oppositional Defiant Disorder?

More commonly known as ODD, Oppositional Defiant Disorder is a disturbing behavior problem that some children and teens are affected by. ODD is a psychiatric disorder that is characterized by aggressiveness and a persistent disregard for societal normalcy and rules. Destruction of property, theft, and rage towards government or "the man" are signs of this disorder.


What is the treatment for Oppositional Defiant Disorder?

group, individual and/or family therapy, and education. Of these, individual therapy is the most common. Therapy can provide a consistent daily schedule, support, consistent rules, discipline, and limits