Dealing with ODD: Some Helpful Tips

What is ODD?

Oppositional defiant disorder or ODD is an abnormal, continuous and ongoing pattern of hostile and disobedient behavior towards authority figures. Children with ODD often throw temper tantrums and are stubborn beyond normal. They are defiant to the point that they will not take “no” for an answer.

The prolonged and continuous defiance interferes with the child’s capacity to normally function at school, home and in the community.

Additionally, an escalation of defiant behavior maybe manifested through stealing, bullying and vandalism.

They are also annoying and are easily annoyed. They generally do not take responsibility and often blame others for everything that do not turn out right.

What are the common manifestations of ODD?

According to the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, common symptoms of ODD in children include the following:

• Recurrent temper tantrums
• Excessive arguing with authority figures such as parents and teachers
• Excessive questioning of rules
• Active defiance
• Refusal to comply with adult requests and rules
• Frequent and deliberate attempts to annoy other people
• Blaming others for his or her mistakes or misbehavior
• Easily annoyed by others
• Frequent anger and resentment
• Mean and hateful talking when upset
• Spiteful attitude and revenge seeking

Can ODD be treated?

The American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (AACAP) advises that a child displaying the ODD symptoms listed above undergo a comprehensive evaluation. A comprehensive evaluation is important to determine whether or not other disorders such as attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), learning disabilities, and other mood disorders are present.

Suggested treatment of ODD includes individual psychotherapy and effective anger management. Family psychotherapy is also important to improve communication and mutual understanding among family members.

Cognitive problem solving skills training and therapies are also advised to help in problem solving. Additionally, social skills training may increase flexibility and improve social skills and increase the threshold for frustration tolerance.

Medication such as risperidone may also be prescribed to help control some of the distressing symptoms of ODD as well as the symptoms of other related diseases such as ADHD and other mood and other anxiety disorders.

How can the parents of children with ODD help?

Positive parenting techniques can help in improving the condition of children with ODD. The AACAP advises that parents can help their child with ODD in the following ways:

• Build on the positive. Be generous with praise and positive reinforcement when positive behavior is displayed.
• Prevent overreacting by taking a time out when you feel that the conflict with your child is about to worsen.
• Enforce consequences consistently. Age appropriate limits and consequences need to be set up and agreed upon.