Oppositional defiant disorder (ODD) is a condition in which a child displays disobedient, hostile and defiant behavior toward authority figures. Although it is normal for a child to exhibit such behavior on occasion, children with ODD display a level of defiance outside the bounds of normal behavior that causes clinically significant impairment in social, academic, or occupational functioning.  Symptoms exhibited by children with ODD can be emotionally taxing for parents and others who interact with the child.

The causes of ODD are unknown, but are thought to be the result of a combination of several factors, including heredity, environmental factors and the child’s individual temperament. Typical symptoms include negativity, defiance, disobedience and hostility toward authority figures. Children may act up anywhere but are most likely to defy adults or peers that they know well in familiar settings such as at home and in school.

Diagnosis of ODD requires a comprehensive evaluation. A physician may use questionnaires or interviews with parents, teachers, babysitters, coaches and others who may describe witnessing behaviors in the child that are typically associated with ODD. Other potential causes of symptoms will have to be ruled out before a diagnosis of ODD can be made. In many cases, an associated mental disorder such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), depression or a learning disability will also be diagnosed.

Detecting ODD early is the key to effective treatment. Behavior therapy that helps children learn to modify their conduct is the chief method of treating ODD. Parents can also help a child with ODD by offering support, structure and discipline. Parents can work with a mental health professional to learn techniques that will help them better cope with their child’s behavior.