Oppositional Defiant Disorder
Children and adolescents with Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) act out persistently so that it causes serious problems at home, in school or with peers. They are more likely to act oppositional or defiant around people they know well, such as family members, a regular care provider or a teacher.
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 even a normal part of development for 2–3-year-olds and early adolescents.
The disorder is diagnosed when uncooperative and hostile behavior is so frequent and consistent that it stands out when:
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- Compared with others of the same age and developmental level
- Affecting social, family and academic life
- Shown as a pattern of uncooperative, defiant and hostile behavior to authority figures, including:
- Excessive arguing with adults, frequent anger and temper tantrums
- Mean, resentful or spiteful, revenge seeking
- Refusal to follow rules or requests
- Touchy and easily annoyed with others
- Blaming others for one’s own mistakes or misbehaviors
Read more about Child Behavior Problems & treatment at CFI…