Oppositional defiant disorder (ODD) is a pattern of hostile behavior by children and teens toward their parents or other authority figures. A child or teen may argue about rules and lose their temper. Kids with this disorder may annoy others on purpose. They may blame others for their mistakes. They may also be overly sensitive, angry, resentful, or vengeful.
Most kids rebel against authority as they grow up. But when a child goes beyond the normal level of defiance, it can cause serious problems within a family. And it can cause problems at school or work.
ODD behavior in some children and teens can get worse. It can lead to conduct disorder. Children with conduct disorder may have a pattern of lying, stealing, and cheating. They may skip school or run away from home. They may also harm animals, property, and other people. It is important to treat ODD early. Treatment can keep the problems from getting worse. Your doctor may advise that your child have a full exam by a psychiatrist. This exam will look for other conditions, such as a learning disability or mood disorder, that may also need treatment.
Oppositional defiant disorder (ODD) is a pattern of hostile behavior by children and teens toward their parents or other authority figures. They may argue about and break rules, lose their temper, annoy others on purpose, blame others for their mistakes or misbehavior, and be overly sensitive, angry, resentful, or vengeful.
Defiance is fairly common in all children, especially in teenagers. Before a diagnosis of oppositional defiant disorder can be made, the disorder characteristics need to persist over 6 months and cause significant problems within the family. And it may cause problems at school or work.
Many children and teens with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) have oppositional defiant disorder. The oppositional defiant behavior of some children and teens will get worse and lead to conduct disorder. Children with conduct disorder may have a pattern of lying, stealing, and cheating, may skip school or run away from home, and may harm animals, property, and other people.
Treatment for children who have oppositional defiant disorder includes therapy, such as family therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy. Parenting classes may also help.
Call 911 anytime you think your child may need emergency care. For example, call if:
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If your child talks about suicide, self-harm, a mental health crisis, a substance use crisis, or any other kind of emotional distress, get help right away. You can:
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Watch closely for changes in your child's health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:
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