Oppositional Defiance Disorder, called ODD for short, is a type of psychiatric disorder usually first seen in children. All children can have stubborn streaks; however, according to Dr. Jim Chandler (MD, FRCPC), children with ODD are "really just the far end of the stubbornness spectrum". This disorder can be mild, or extreme. While diagnosis of a 'psychiatric disorder' can be alarming, it is important to note that children are unique and treatment will be tailored to the needs of the child. Behaviours seen related to ODD in children: . Impatient . Argues with authority figures . Frequently refuses to obey requests / rules . Deliberately annoys others . When caught misbehaving, will blames others . Described as "cranky" or "in a bad mood" . Frequently exhibits anger / resentment . Seen as "mean" or "stubborn" Diagnosis of ODD in children takes time Almost any child has periods where they "talk back" to mom or dad and snatch toys from their siblings. Such attitudes / actions are a normal part of the process of maturing. Normally, such episodes will pass quickly; they do not become a defining behavior pattern. Teaching normal social skills and redirecting the child can replace those early signs of defiance and hostility. Left unaddressed, these behaviours can amplify and lead to a full blown case of ODD in children. In order to be diagnosed with ODD, a child must have shown many of the traits listed above as a consistent behaviour over at least several weeks or months. Known causes of ODD in children ODD in children is thought to be caused by a number of risk factors. Cumulatively, many of the events listed below may combine to cause ODD in children. Some of the contributing factors include the following: . Diagnosis of ODD in either parent or another sibling- there may be a genetic link to ODD in children . Injuries during gestation- any trauma to foetus during pregnancy including: accidents, smoking, or drug use (prescriptions included) may cause damage and increase the chance of ODD in children. Fetal Alcohol Syndrome is a definite risk factor. . Psychological factors - children in abusive environments, lacking one or both biological parents, and those who lack strong attachment to parents are more likely to exhibit symptoms of ODD in children. . Social Risk Factors - inconsistent parenting is a major factor. Other contributing social factors include poverty, dysfunctional communities, inattentive parents, violence, substance abuse, child abuse. . Sleep issues- In addition to aggravating the behaviour, consistent sleep problems such as lack of sleep or interrupted sleep can result in the symptoms of ODD in children. . ADHD - children who experience the frustrations which accompany ADHD are much more likely to manifest ODD in children. The probability of a child who is diagnosed with ADHD also being diagnosed with ODD in children is between 30% - 40%. . Depression - happy children are unlikely to develop ODD in children. Oppositional tendencies are frequently observed in children who are usually unhappy or depressed. The good news about ODD in children Early treatment has meant that about 50% of the children diagnosed with ODD outgrow the symptoms by age 8. In order for this to happen, it's crucial that parents and / or caregivers identify as many contributing factors as possible, and address / eliminate them. Consistency is the key. Stick to the plan you have decided upon. Always reward good behavior - make sure that they feel loved whenever the opportunity arises - and never reward bad behavior. Avoid participating in adversarial behavior, but don't allow yourself to be bullied. Do not let pride come in the way of seeking professional help. ODD in children should be treated with urgency. Children need the support to find other ways to deal with frustration- or the children with ODD will become adults with ODD and be affected for the rest of their lives.
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Oppositional Defiance Disorder, called ODD for short, is a psychiatric classification for a type of consistent behaviour first seen in children. All children can have stubborn streaks; however, according to Dr. Jim Chandler (MD, FRCPC), children with ODD are "really just the far end of the stubbornness spectrum".
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