About this topic
Oppositional defiant disorder is also known as ODD. It is a set of behavior and mood problems in children. A child or teen with ODD may seem angry all the time and be very negative. Children and teens with ODD may be stubborn and hostile, especially when dealing with parents and teachers. These children often blame others for their problems. Parents and caregivers may view these children as difficult or challenging. ‚
What are the causes?
There are no known causes of ODD. It may be caused by a brain injury. It may also be passed on from a parent to a child. ‚
What can make this more likely to happen?
Young children with ODD are more often male. By school age, both boys and girls are equally likely to have ODD. These things can also raise the risk for ODD: ‚
- Having attention deficit disorder
- A poor relationship with parents or friends
- Living in a poor neighborhood
- Having a parent with a mental health problem
- Harsh or inconsistent discipline
- Abuse or neglect
What are the main signs?
Your child may: ‚
- Be very negative or angry
- Be easily bothered by others
- Argue often
- Refuse to follow rules
- Blame others for mistakes or problems
How does the doctor diagnose this health problem?
Your doctor will take your child 's history and do an exam. The doctor will talk with you about your child 's behavior and activities. Be sure to share the signs you see in your child that are worrying you. Tell the doctor how they are affecting your child and family. ‚
How does the doctor treat this health problem?
Your doctor may send your child to a mental health expert, like a psychologist or psychiatrist. Your child may work on learning how to deal with teachers and parents. Your child may also work on how to deal with frustrations. You may also go to learn ways to deal with your childs behavior. Support groups may help you or your child deal with feelings and behaviors. ‚
What drugs may be needed?
The doctor may order drugs to: ‚
- Treat other problems like attention deficit disorder
- Treat low mood or worry
What can be done to prevent this health problem?
There is no way to prevent ODD. Learning skills to handle your childs behaviors and early treatment may make your child or teen's ODD behaviors better. ‚
Where can I learn more?
American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry ‚
https://www.aacap.org/App_Themes/AACAP/docs/resource_centers/odd/odd_resource_center_odd_guide.pdf ‚
American Academy of Pediatrics ‚
http://www.healthychildren.org/English/health-issues/conditions/emotional-problems/Pages/Disruptive-Behavior-Disorders.aspx ‚
Last Reviewed Date
2015-05-08 ‚
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This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care provider 's advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚
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Copyright ‚ © 2016 Wolters Kluwer Clinical Drug Information, Inc. and its affiliates and/or licensors. All rights reserved. ‚