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What is Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD)?
Many children and adolescents are oppositional and defiant at times. A little bit of this behaviour
is normal and expected as they learn to recognize their boundaries. Typically, this behaviour can
be curbed through different parenting strategies, such as defining boundaries and followingthrough on set consequences. However, sometimes the behaviour may indicate a deeper issue.
Oppositional defiant disorder (ODD) is classified as a disruptive, impulse-control and conduct
disorder that is characterized by issues with emotional and behavioural regulation. Children,
adolescents and adults with ODD may struggle with self-control, which may bring them into
conflict with social norms and authority figures. While some people with ODD only exhibit
behaviours at home, others may display these traits throughout life, causing significant issues in
relationships, school, employment, and social settings.
While there is no single known cause of ODD, risk factors include genetics/biology,
environmental factors, and psychological factors. ODD is more prevalent in males than females,
and usually sets in prior to adolescence.
Symptoms
Symptoms of ODD may appear similar to those displayed in other mental and physical health
conditions, such as depression, bipolar disorder, and substance use. Therefore, people are
typically not diagnosed with ODD unless they exhibit the following symptoms without the
presence of other mental and physical conditions:
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Spitefulness (vindictive and/or holds grudges)
Frequently loses temper
Easily irritated and annoyed
Often angry and resentful
Argues with authority figures (e.g., parents, teachers, police)
Actively defies or refuses to comply with set rules
Deliberately annoys others
Blames others for their behaviours
Treatment
ODD is treated through a variety of different interventions, which need to be tailored to the
specific needs of the person with ODD and their family. Family therapy and skills training,
problem-solving skills training, psychoeducation, counselling, and medication are typically
options for those seeking treatment for ODD.
Sources
American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders: DSM-5. Washington,
D.C: American Psychiatric Association.
Retrieved from http://www.dsm5.org/documents/eating%20disorders%20fact%20sheet.pdf
American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. (2009). Oppositional defiant disorder: A guide for families.
Retrieved from
https://www.aacap.org/App_Themes/AACAP/docs/resource_centers/odd/odd_resource_center_odd_guide.pdf