Oppositional Defiant Disorder is commonly called , (ODD). There is a fine line between children defying authority and behaving badly at times and when such behavior is serious enough to be diagnosed as ODD. All parents are familiar with the “terrible twos” and a certain amount of defiance in the teens. When the behavior lasts for a prolonged length of time (more than six months) or when the defiant behavior is extreme and more persistent than other children of the same age, we may be able to define the behavioral problem as oppositional defiant disorder (ODD).
The young person with Oppositional Defiant Disorder regularly shows a pattern of hostile, irritating, uncooperative and mean or rude behavior towards adults and people who represent authority. This bad behavior is interrupting to the day to day life at home, at school, or any other activity in which the child is involved.
If you find Oppositional Defiant Disorder in a child, you will often find other behavioral problems. Depression, anxiety, mood swings, hyperactivity, and trouble paying attention are some of the other behavioral problems these ODD children may experience.
The symptoms of ODD are easy to see. Whether or not they are actually ODD is determined by the age and frequency and seriousness of this kind of activity, as well as the seeming intent, when you know the child (or teen) knows right from wrong or the appropriate behavior for the situation. If the behavior continues on and on after punishment and stern talks and explanations and seems to be “on purpose” you may have Oppositional Defiant Disorder going on. Keep in mind that a time or two of these occurrences can be attributed to age or irritability at the moment or a number of other reasons, but it is the continued intolerable behavior that we must watch out for.
Arguing with adults, deliberately trying to bother or upset another child or an adult, spiteful, revenge seeking, saying hurtful things to others, throwing repeated tantrums, shouting obscenities or swearing, always blaming others and arguing and refusing to go along with the rules are some of the demonstrated types of behavior in the ODD child or teen.
We all wonder what could be the cause of such bad behavior in one child and not in another, and often even from the same family! The absolute cause is not really known for sure. There appears to be various causes: biological) brain damage, chemical imbalances,) genetic (inherited tendency for emotional problems such as depression) and environmental reasons (discipline, attention (lack of), and numerous problems for which the parenting or lack of parenting could be to blame for this affliction. Often, the exact cause can never be pinpointed or there may be a combination of causes.
If Oppositional Defiant Disorder is the likely problem for your child or teen’s unacceptable behavior, a thorough exam by your physician should be the place to start. He will help to diagnose the problem and help you find a solution or cure. He will begin his evaluation with a complete medical history and physical exam to make certain there is no physical cause. Only then should child psychologists or other therapy techniques be taken, at the recommendation of your physician or medical adviser.
However, you should also educate yourself. There are now many good references describing the disorder and parenting management cures.
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