Oppositional Defiant Disorders

All children are oppositional from time to time, particularly when tired, hungry, stressed or upset. They may argue, talk back, disobey, and defy parents, teachers, and other adults. Oppositional behavior is often a normal part of development for two to three year olds and early adolescents. However, openly uncooperative and hostile behavior becomes a serious concern when it is so frequent and consistent that it stands out when compared with other children of the same age and developmental level and when it affects the child's social, family, and academic life.

In children with Oppositional Defiant Disorders (ODD), there is an ongoing pattern of uncooperative, defiant, and hostile behavior toward authority figures that seriously interferes with the youngster's day to day functioning. Symptoms of ODD may include:

frequent temper tantrums
excessive arguing with adults
active defiance and refusal to comply with adult requests and rules
deliberate attempts to annoy or upset people
blaming others for his or her mistakes or misbehavior
often being touchy or easily annoyed by others
frequent anger and resentment
mean and hateful talking when upset
seeking revenge

The symptoms are usually seen in multiple settings, but may be more noticeable at home or at school. Five to fifteen percent of all school-age children have Oppositional Defiant Disorders. The causes of ODD are unknown, but many parents report that their child with ODD was more rigid and demanding than the child's siblings from an early age. Biological and environmental factors may have a role.

A child presenting with Oppositional Defiant Disorders symptoms should have a comprehensive evaluation. It is important to look for other disorders which may be present; such as, attention-deficit hyperactive disorder (ADHD), learning disabilities, mood disorders (depression, bipolar disorder) and anxiety disorders. It may be difficult to improve the symptoms of ODD without treating the coexisting disorder. Some children with ODD may go on to develop called conduct disorder.

If your teen is displaying symptoms of Oppositional Defiant Disorders, it is very important
that you seek treatment. A teen with ODD is at risk for developing other
mental disorders, such as antisocial personality disorder, mood or anxiety disorders,
and substance use disorders, in adulthood if left untreated. Teens with Oppositional Defiant
Disorders are also at risk for school-related problems, substance abuse,
legal problems and injuries (to self or others), sexually transmitted diseases,
and suicide. But, when caught early, treatment of bipolar disorders can be successfull.

It is often necessary to place teens with Oppositional Defiant Disorders in a therapeutic boarding school setting. We have information on many treatment centers that have had success in treating Oppositional Defiant Disorders.

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