Does Your Child Have Oppositional Defiant Disorder?

Anyone that is a parent will tell you that all children are oppositional from time to time and in particular when they are hungry, upset or tired. All children will at some time argue, disobey and be defiant so in a sense oppositional behaviour is in fact a normal part of childhood development. It becomes a bit more than that though if your child is constantly uncooperative and their behavior is constantly defiant and as a parent you know that it is beyond just the normal ‘naughtiness’.

Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) is quite common and in children that have ODD the pattern of being uncooperative, defiant and hostile is an ongoing problem and will interfered with the general daily functions of the child.

Children with ODD can, but not always, also have other disorders such as ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder), Aspergers Syndrome, Anxiety Disorder or other learning disabilities so it is important to have your child assessed by a professional so any other disorder may also be worked upon.

The symptoms of Oppositional Defiant Disorder may include:

• Excessive arguing with parents or other adults
• Constantly annoying or upsetting people deliberately
• Frequent temper tantrums
• Frequent refusal to obey rules and adult requests
• Not taking responsibility for their behavior and always blaming others
• May be easily annoyed and very touchy
• May talk very nastily and hatefully when they are upset
• Will seek revenge and need to have the final say
• May display frequent anger and resentment

The symptoms may be seen in any environment but are most likely to be displayed in their home environment or a place where they feel most comfortable to display their emotions.