Oppositional Defiant Disorder

Oppositional defiant - typical Behaviors, common issues and treatment.

Oppositional defiant children show a consistent pattern of refusing to follow commands or requests by adults. These children repeatedly lose their temper, argue with adults, and refuse to comply with rules and directions. They are easily annoyed and blame others for their mistakes. Children with ODD show a pattern of stubbornness and frequently test limits, even in early childhood. These children can be manipulative and often induce discord in those around them. Commonly they turn attention away from themselves by inciting parents and other family members to fight with one and other. Estimates of the occurrence of ODD in children run from 5 to 15 percent of the total population. It is more commonly seen in boys, and about 60-70 % of children with ODD also have ADHD.

Typical Behaviors

stubbornness
arguments with adults
frequent temper tantrums
testing limits and boundaries
easily annoyed
refusal to comply with rules and directions
blaming of others for their mistakes
vindictive behavior

Causes

No one knows for certain what causes ODD. There are two theories: the developmental theory proposes that ODD is a result of incomplete child development. The learning theory suggests that ODD comes as a response to negative interactions: the techniques used by parents and authority figures bring about the negative oppositional behaviors. There is also some proof that a genetic disposition, brain chemical imbalance, or neurological disorders could cause ODD. The usual pattern is for problems to begin between ages 1-3. Most of these behaviors are normal at age 2, but in this disorder they never go away. If a parent is alcoholic and has been in trouble with the law, their children are almost three times as likely to have ODD.

Common Issues

Academic difficulties
Loss of interest in school or other activities that used to interest the child
Poor peer relationships
Increase in chronic lying, stealing, shoplifting
Truancy, running away, alcohol/drug abuse, sexual promiscuity
Low self-esteem and depression
Loyalty to delinquent peer groups
Isolation from family members

Treatment

Parents should work with a common goal (also with the school), use exact rules and consequences, implement behavioral monitoring, and use a reward program. Family and individual therapy treatment can be effective in some cases. Behavior Therapy or Behavior Modification interventions have been used successfully, including long-term care in a Residential Treatment Center. Some psychiatrists suggest also medications such as Risperdal, Zyprexa, and Seroquil.