Oppositional defiant disorder (ODD) is a type of behavioral disorder. It is usually  diagnosed in childhood . Children with this condition  are uncooperative, defiant  and hostile toward peers, parents, teachers and other authority figures.

What causes ODD in children ?

The exact cause of this condition is unknown but 2 main theories exist.

• Developmental therapy : This theory suggests that the problems starts when child is a toddler. Children and teen with this condition may have had trouble learning to become independent from a parent or other main person to whom they were emotionally attached. Their behavior may be normal developmental issues that are lasting beyond the toddler years.
• Learning theory. This theory suggests that the negative symptoms of ODD are learned attitudes. That is they mirror the effects of negative reinforcement methods used by parents and others in power.The use of negative reinforcement increases the child’s ODD behaviors. This is  because these behaviors allow the child to get what he or she wants such as  attention and reaction from parents or others.

Which children are at risk ?

ODD is common in boys than girls. Children with the following mental disorder are more at risk and this includes :

• Mood or anxiety disorder
• Conduct disorder
• Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)

What are the symptoms of ODD in a child

Symptoms of ODD may also show up in children who do not have the conditions. This is especially true for children around the ages  of 2 or 3 or during their teen ages. Children usually disobey, or argue with parents and defy authority escpecilaly when they are upset, hungry or tired. However in children with ODD, this happens often. They may even interfere with learning and school adjustment  and in some cases disrupt the child’s relationship with others.

Symptoms may include :

• Having frequent temper tantrums.
• Being easily annoyed by others.
• Refusing to do what adults say.
• Arguing with lots of adults.
• Always questioning  rules and refusing to follow rules.
• Speaking harshly and unkindly .
• Seeking revenge and being vindictive.
• Having an angry attitude often.

If your child is having these symptoms, seek professional help.

How is ODD treated ?

Early treatment is important to prevent future problems. Treatment however depends on the child’s symptoms, age and health. It also depends on how bad the ODD is . These treatment options  include the following :

• Cognitive-behavioral therapy : During this therapy, a child learns to better solve problems and communicate. He or she also learns how to control impulses and anger.
• Family therapy : This is when therapy helps make changes in the family.  It improves communication skills and family interactions.
• Peer group therapy : This helps a child  develops better social and interpersonal skills.
• Medicine : This is not used often. However a child  may need them for other symptoms or disorders  such as ADHD.