Developing Children and Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD)
Many parents may have difficulty identifying why their child is having behavioral issues and they don’t know why their child is often uncooperative and acting defiant. Oppositional Defiant Disorder, known as ODD, is a behavioral disorder that causes children to display these behaviors, and it may be the answer as to why your child is having problems. There is not one specific reason a child may be diagnosed with ODD, but many factors can contribute to this condition. ODD can be influenced by relationships, environment, genetics, and other psychological health factors, which can lead to a child being uncooperative and defiant. ODD often coexists with other psychological conditions such as ADHD, anxiety, and depression which are becoming more and more prevalent in children today.
The common signs of ODD consist of, but are not limited to;
· Frequent loss of temper
· Being uncooperative/unwilling to follow rules
· Argumentative to authority figures and/or peers
· Lack of ownership for mistakes/blaming others for their problems
· Opposition to small and unimportant rules and requests
Along with the different behaviors, the severity of ODD may depend on the setting the behaviors are taking place. Mild cases of ODD may occur in one setting such as at home with a parent or at school with a teacher, whereas more severe cases can be observed across many different settings. The frequency of these behaviors must also be monitored because not every child who shows opposition is subject to ODD. These signs and symptoms typically need to surface consistently at least once per week over the course of six months in order to show that an issue may be present.
Without proper intervention, ODD can cause issues for children as they develop into adolescents and adults. Early intervention is essential to helping your child reach their full potential and prevent further issues related to ODD. If you believe your child may be showing signs of ODD, contact our office for a consultation to learn more.
Oppositional defiant disorder. (ODD) – Signs, Symptoms & Treatment | Nationwide Children’s Hospital. (n.d.). https://www.nationwidechildrens.org/conditions/oppositional-defiant-disorder
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (n.d.). Table 18, DSM-IV to DSM-5 oppositional defiant disorder comparison – DSM-5 changes – NCBI bookshelf. DSM-5 Changes: Implications for Child Serious Emotional Disturbance [Internet]. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK519712/table/ch3.t14/