Does My Child Have Oppositional Defiant Disorder?

Does your child often lose his temper over a period of at least 6 months, which is exhibited during interaction with at least one individual who is not a sibling?

Is your child often touchy or easily annoyed over a period of at least 6 months, which is exhibited during interaction with at least one individual who is not a sibling?

Is your child often angry and resentful over a period of at least 6 months, which is exhibited during interaction with at least one individual who is not a sibling?

Does your child often argue with authority figures or adults, over a period of at least 6 months?

Does your child often actively defy or refuse to comply with requests from authority figures or with rules, over a period of at least 6 months?

Does your child often deliberately annoy others, over a period of at least 6 months, which is exhibited during interaction with at least one individual who is not a sibling?

Does your child often blame others for his or her mistakes or misbehavior, over a period of at least 6 months, which is exhibited during interaction with at least one individual who is not a sibling?

Has your child been spiteful or vindictive at least twice within the past 6 months, which is exhibited during interaction with at least one individual who is not a sibling?

Is the disturbance in behavior associated with distress (in self or others in his immediate social context) or does it negatively impact social, educational, occupational or other important areas of functioning?

Can you confirm that the behaviors do not occur exclusively during the course of a psychotic, substance use, depressive or bipolar disorder? Also, the criteria are not met for disruptive mood dysregulation disorder.

Based on your answers, it is unlikely that your child has oppositional defiant disorder.

While it is unlikely that your child has oppositional defiant disorder, your child is displaying some signs related to it. All children can be difficult to handle at times, but if your child frequently and persistently shows anger, vindictiveness or irritability towards authority figures, it may be a sign of ODD. Your child may not see this behavior as a problem. If you are concerned about your child’s behavior, seek medical support.

While it is unlikely that your child has oppositional defiant disorder, your child is displaying some signs related to it. These signs usually begin during preschool years or before the early teen years. The behaviors have a negative impact on the family, social activities, school and work. It may be hard for kids with ODD to keep relationships. As a parent, it may be important to implement positive parenting. Additionally, early treatment is important to prevent the behaviors from getting worse. Talk with your doctor if you suspect your child has ODD. The earlier the symptoms can be managed, the better the outcome.

Unfortunately, your child is displaying the symptoms typically seen among individuals who have oppositional defiant disorder. It may be of high importance to seek medical support. Treatment for this type of disorder usually involves family-based interventions. Additionally, it can also include different types of psychotherapy and training. As a parent it may be important to do specific parental training where they teach you how to manage your child’s behavior. It is essential to always show your child love, acceptance and consistency. Make sure to reward your child’s positive behaviors as well.