Oppositional Defiant Disorder is a disorder that affects behavior largely in children. It has shown to appear in about 2-11% of children.
Symptoms of this disorder can include:
arguing with adults
refusing to follow directions/rules (especially made by adults)
anger, annoyance, hostility, using harsh words
tantrums
purposefully upsetting people, seeking revenge
These symptoms are at their most severe during younger years (approximately age 5), and luckily, they decline as the person ages.
It is important to understand that these behaviors can be prevalent in children without ODD. In fact, a number of adolescents or teenagers do not get diagnosed due to these behaviors appearing normal for their age. However, in children affected by this disorder, the symptoms are much more severe. It is required for a medical professional to diagnose someone with ODD. If the symptoms last at least six months and affect others, specifically non-family members, a diagnosis of ODD can be made.
What causes ODD?
Right now, scientists do not know what the true cause of ODD is, however, there have been a couple theories:
The harsh behaviors portrayed by the children or teens affected with this disorder may be learned behaviors. This could be due to parents or other authority figures portraying similar behaviors, which the affected children use to seek reactions from them. Other factors such as poverty, violence, and rejection could also play a role in the development of ODD.
There is also a theory which suggests that ODD is caused by delayed developmental problems with behavior due to the lack of independence as a result of attachment to parents/authority figures. This theory suggests this disorder is first prevalent when the child is a young toddler.
Genetics could also play a role in developing ODD. It has been shown that ODD can be about 50% heritable. It is also known that ODD has common genetic overlaps and correlations with conduct disorder, ADHD, and depression (as well as other mood disorders). Also, a study has shown that low activity in the MAOA enzyme as well as differences in cortisol levels have been linked to antisocial or hostile behaviors.
Treatments:
Behavioral therapy is probably the most common treatment given to individuals affected by oppositional defiant disorder. Certain medications can also be used to reduce the effects of ODD. Some of these medications include antipsychotics, stimulants (also helps with ADHD symptoms, if any), and antidepressants (helps with anxiety and depressive symptoms, if any). There is no medication that directly impacts ODD by itself, and the medications listed must be used along with some form of therapy.
It is also a priority to inform the parents of the child. For example, helping the parent set clear boundaries, rewards, and expectations for their child will help their child recover and control their emotions, as well as improve the healthy bond between them and their children.
It is always important for parents and guardians to be aware of their child's behaviors, and get treatments as soon as possible. Children affected with oppositional defiant disorder can be extremely difficult to deal with, however, with the right treatment and/or medications, the severity of this behavioral disorder in children and adolescents will decrease.
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