Why Does My Child Show Anger, Vindictiveness, Or Irritability Towards Me?

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

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

Does he 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 he 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 he 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?

Based on your answers, your child is showing some undesirable behavior. While it is unlikely that your child has oppositional defiant disorder (ODD), he 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 his behavior as a problem. In case you answered ‘no’ to all questions, there may be no need to worry. However, if you feel like you can’t manage your child’s symptoms or if you are concerned about your child’s behavior, seek medical support.

While it is unlikely that your child has oppositional defiant disorder (ODD), he is displaying some signs related to it. It may be difficult sometimes to understand the difference between an emotional or strong-willed child and one who suffers from ODD. Oppositional behavior is normal at certain stages of a child’s development. Signs of ODD usually begin before the early teen years. The behaviors have a negative impact on the family, social activities, school and work. As a parent, it may be important to implement positive parenting. Also, early treatment is important to prevent the behaviors from getting worse. The earlier the symptoms can be managed, the better the outcome.

Unfortunately, your child is displaying symptoms typically seen among kids who have oppositional defiant disorder. Your child will probably blame others for problems. If you feel you are not able to parent a challenging child, it may be important to seek medical support. Treatment for ODD usually involves family-based interventions. Besides, it can include different types of psychotherapy and training. As a parent it may be important to do a specific parental training in which they teach you how to manage your child’s behavior. It is essential to always show your child love, acceptance, and consistency. Make also sure to reward your child’s positive behaviors.