The occasional acts of defiance and disobedience can be expected with most children. Many kids will misbehave from time to time, especially when they don’t feel well or dislike what is being asked of them. When this behavior happens more often than not or is impacting your child’s functioning it may be worth another look. Frequent and intense acting out or disobedience may be a symptom of Oppositional Defiant Disorder or ODD.

Children with ODD can be misunderstood. They can have a lot of difficulty interacting with others as a result of their disruptive behavior. As such, they are often labeled as disobedient, spoiled, rebellious, defiant, misbehaved, the list goes on. Because of their behaviors other children, even their own siblings, may avoid them. Adults, parents and teachers may find themselves at a loss when it comes to disciplining them. Misunderstanding and avoidance can lead to children with ODD feeling alone or isolated. Symptoms going unrecognized can complicate treatment and lead to more serious behavioral issues.

If you feel that ODD may be impacting your child, know that help is available. Knowing what to look out for when it comes to ODD can be helpful and can assist you in finding solutions for your child. ODD is complicated, therapy can help.

What is ODD?

Acting out has always been seen as unhealthy or disruptive, however, ODD is more than simply acting out or rebelling. As children get older, they naturally begin to question rules and authority, though not all act out in disruptive ways. The diagnosis of Oppositional Defiant Disorder first appeared in the DSM III in the 1980’s.

Many children may start to exhibit symptoms before they turn eight. It isn’t unusual, however, for some to show signs when they are older or during adolescence. It may take time for symptoms to evolve and to be noticed.

For a child to meet criteria for ODD, the symptoms must be exhibited for at least six months. Symptoms can include angry or irritable mood, argumentative and defiant behaviors as well as vindictiveness. Severity can range from mild to severe.

The Red Flags of ODD

Many parents have difficulty recognizing the symptoms of ODD. One reason is because these behaviors can be common among young people, though they tend to be less severe in those that do not have ODD. Not every unacceptable behavior indicates ODD, but it can be a real possibility when defiance is persistently displayed for months.

According to John Hopkins Medicine, the symptoms of ODD may include:

• Frequent temper tantrums
• Excessive arguments with adults
• Refusal to comply with adult requests
• Always questioning rules; refusal to follow rules
• Behavior intended to annoy or upset others, including adults
• Blaming others for one’s own misbehaviors or mistakes
• Easily annoyed by others
• Frequently having an angry attitude
• Speaking harshly, or unkindly
• Seeking revenge

The Dangers of ODD

Undiagnosed, ODD runs the risk of becoming worse. As it becomes worse, it can bring about risks to your child’s physical and emotional health. Untreated, it can also impact their functioning, resulting in poor performance in school or failing to meet their responsibilities at home and school. It can prevent them from having positive and satisfying interactions with other people. Without treatment, ODD may also lead to other conditions, such as conduct disorder that may persist into their teenage and adult years.

Left untreated, your child may develop other problems – antisocial behavior, poor performance, difficulty controlling their impulses or temper, and/or substance use disorder. ODD can similarly increase susceptibility to Conduct Disorder, learning and communication disorders, and other conditions, such as anxiety, depression, and ADHD. Early intervention often improves prognosis and treatment progression.

Studies reveal that ADHD or Attention-deficit Hyperactivity Disorder is strongly associated with ODD. Though not every child with ODD has ADHD, about 65 percent do. Seeking treatment sooner rather than later can make a world of difference.

ODD and Counseling

Professional behavioral health practitioners are equipped with a number of approaches and interventions to treat and improve ODD. These include talk therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, social skills training, as well as family therapy, parental skills training, and other preventative programs.

A child with oppositional defiant disorder may test your patience like no other and may not respond to your usual parenting style. Insisting on your usual discipline style may do more harm than good, not only for your child’s emotional wellbeing, but for you and your relationship with them as well.

According to the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, for successful resolution of ODD symptoms, the treatment must be tailored to the specific needs of a child. This means that the approaches for preschoolers may be different than that of teens. A trained counselor independently contracted with Carolina Counseling Services – Cameron, NC, can help provide assessment, intervention, and hope. Call today to schedule your first appointment!

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