Oppositional Defiant Disorder In Children & Teens
ODD In Children
Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) is a type of disruptive behavioral disorder – a condition in which children are frequently uncooperative, defiant and hostile towards peers, parents, teachers and other authority figures.
Statistics show that 25% of boys with ADHD and 10% of girls with ADHD will develop Oppositional Defiant Disorder. If untreated, about 40% of those childrens’ symptoms will progressively worsen and develop into a conduct disorder.
Signs That Your Child May Be Experiencing ODD:
Most behaviors exhibited by children with ODD can at times appear normal and age appropriate. Most children can disobey, argue with parents and defy authority. Most commonly during times of hunger, exhaustion and upset. But in children and teens with ODD, these symptoms occur often and interfere with learning and school adjustment.
A child with ODD might:
- Have frequent temper tantrums
- Argue often with adults
- Refuse to do what is asked of them
- Question the rules and refuse to comply
- Engage in behaviors to intentionally annoy or upset others
- Blame others for their own misbehaviors
- Speak harshly
- Seek revenge on others
Ways To Support Your Child:
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy – Through this work, a child can better understand their internal process; working to identify triggers and proactively control their impulse to respond. Children learn to understand their behaviors and the consequences that follow.
Family Therapy – As a cohesive unit, children and parents work together to improve communication, problem solve and establish appropriate boundaries.
- Peer Group Therapy – Children can learn more appropriate social skills through this type of group dynamic. They can become more aware of their own responses and the impact that they have on those around them.
