If your child has the symptoms of Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD), it is important to understand what ODD is and how you can help your child. Behaviors such as disobedience, arguing all the time, stubbornness, irritability, and anger do not necessarily indicate ODD. They are typical behaviors that children may exhibit while growing up. However, if these behaviors are frequent and intense enough to impact your child’s relationships and interactions with others, it may be worthwhile to consult with a professional. A child therapist will be able to assess what is going on and help to recommend a treatment plan that works for you both. 

Start by Understanding ODD

Oppositional Defiant Disorder is characterized by “a chronic pattern of negativity, hostility, and non-compliant child behavior that is most often directed toward authority figures and has existed for at least 6 months,” says the American Psychiatric Association. Though defiance and hostility may be exhibited by many children, ODD is a possibility when behaviors are extreme, going beyond what you might call occasional talking back or obstinacy.

The symptoms of ODD can be severe enough to disrupt daily functioning at home, on the playground, or at school, so that a child stands out or people avoid them. Children with ODD may purposely annoy people or be illogically argumentative, uncooperative, or quick to blame others for the consequences of their actions. They may also be short-tempered and become easily annoyed, throwing tantrums or having meltdowns when things don’t go their way.

There is no clear-cut explanation for what triggers ODD. According to the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy, it could evolve “out of a complex interaction of many different factors related to the basic biological, psychological, and social nature of the child and his or her relationships with the family and other environments, such as school.“ Regardless of how it starts, ODD can be extremely challenging for everyone.

The Effects of ODD

ODD symptoms may result in difficulty for your child. Symptoms can stand in the way of having a fulfilling childhood. Without intervention, these symptoms can affect relationships with family, peers and mentors. Symptoms can progress if left untreated and cause ongoing problems into adulthood.

Parenting can be challenging because standard approaches may not be as effective. Children with ODD can be easily threatened by rules that they don’t understand or by punishments they feel they don’t deserve, triggering more defiant reactions. Their continued noncooperation and disobedience may distress and hurt you. It may make you feel frustrated, helpless, even guilty. Having to “walk on eggshells,” worried that a wrong move can trigger another breakdown, can be very stressful for the entire family.

Parenting one child differently may also affect your relationships with your spouse and other children. The other children may resent that the sibling with ODD is spared the usual discipline. The more severe the symptoms are, the conflicts may arise.

Getting the Help You Deserve

It isn’t your fault if your child has ODD, but know that you can be part of making things better for your child. Your parenting techniques may need to change, however, help is available. Counseling can help you and your child work through ODD and come out stronger on the other side. 

Carolina Counseling Services — Sanford Office contracts with licensed counselors and therapists who know how to treat ODD. Together you can develop a treatment plan that is right for you and your child. Call today to get started.

Related Articles:

• Oppositional Defiant Disorder among Children and Teenagers
• Oppositional Defiance: Does Your Child Show the Signs?
• The Path to a Happy Childhood: Despite ODD