Whilst growing up children will occasionally go through phases of fighting with their parents, arguing with and disobeying teachers or talking back to adults. Sometimes, however, this behaviour can be more extreme for the child’s age than expected which may mean the individual has a behavioural disorder known as oppositional defiant disorder (ODD).
The characteristics of ODD are that the behaviour is a long-term (six months or more) and ongoing with temper tantrums, anger, disobedience, stubbornness as well as hostility toward authority figures. It is important to see a qualified Therapist or practitioner as soon as possible if you believe your child may have ODD in order to work to develop ways to coping with their angry behaviour and find ways of building communication between parents and children with ODD.
Conditions related to ODD
Children with Oppositional defiant disorder (ODD) display disruptive behaviour mainly with figures of authority (parents and teachers), conduct disorder which is seen as a tendency towards antisocial behaviour (stealing, fighting, vandalism and harming people or animals). They may also Children suffer with some level of ADHD which is Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Which is characterized by inattentiveness, hyperactivity or restlessness, disruptive behaviour, and poor impulse control. Children with ADHD have an inability to focus and are easily distracted. In addition, children with ODD may suffer with anxiety and nervousness as well as other mood disorders.
Considering treatment ODD treatment plan
Before tackling oppositional defiant symptoms, a patient or parent must be certain that related conditions — including ADHD, anxiety, and mood disorders — are under control. Each one of these other factors can contribute to oppositional behavior and can exacerbate ODD symptoms. When considering treatment options for children with ODD it is important to consider how the disorder may affect other family members emotionally, including the parents themselves. It may help for children suffering ODD to see a qualified therapist as part of their treatment plan.