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oppositional-defiant-disorderOppositional defiant disorder is a continuing pattern of disobedient, hostile and defiant behavior toward authority which goes beyond the limits of normal childhood behavior. This disorder is usually diagnosed in childhood. Children and adolescents with Oppositional Defiant Disorder are more troublesome to others than they are troubled themselves.

What Causes Oppositional Defiant Disorder?

While the cause of Oppositional Defiant Disorder is unknown, there are two principal theories suggested to explain the development of ODD. It is said that ODD develops in toddlers. Children and adolescents who develop ODD may have had a hard time isolating from their first attachment figure and developing independent skills. ODD is observed as an extension of the normal developmental issues that were not properly settled during the toddler years.

It is suggested that ODD may be the result of bad techniques used by parents or authority figures. The use of bad techniques by parents is seen as increasing the rate and eagerness of oppositional behaviors in the toddler as it fulfills the desired attention, time, and love with parents or authority figures.

Oppositional Defiant Disorder does run in families. If a parent is an alcoholic and has trouble following the law, their children will likely have ODD.

How will you Know that your Child has ODD?

Here are a few signs of Oppositional Defiant Disorder:

1. Constant temper tantrums
2. Always arguing with adults
3. Frequently challenging the rules
4. Has a hard time abiding with the rules/Defiant
5. Intentional attempts to irritate people
6. Can’t own up to his misbehavior
7. Easily upset by others
8. Frequent anger and resentment
9. Mean and spiteful talking when angry
10. Seeks revenge

Most symptoms are noticeable when the child is either at home or in school. If your child presents any symptom, he should have a comprehensive evaluation. You may also want to look for other conditions such as ADHD. There are a lot of programs that you can use such as The Total Transformation by James Lehman to help you with your child.

A child that has ODD can be very challenging for parents. Parents can help their child with ODD in the these ways:

a.) Always focus on the positives. Give him praise when he shows compliance.
b.) Take a break if you are about to make matters worse. This would set as a good example for your child. Encourage him to take a break as well if he is about to lose it.
c.) Choose your battles. You cannot be fighting with your child with every single misbehavior that he does. Choose first what you think is the most important.
d.) Be reasonable when you give consequences like time-outs. His age should be considered.
e.) Manage your own stress and temper. Try exercising or other relaxation methods.

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