Yet another trendy term has appeared on the list of childhood disorders. Certain children who are continually defiant and openly hostile towards any figure in authority can be diagnosed with ODD.

But how do you know whether your child has Oppositional Defiant Disorder or is not just naughty? If only it were as simple as having the child undergo a blood test or a brain scan. There are no such tests for this condition - children suspected as having this condition need to be evaluated by a trained professional. The professionals will conduct a series of observations and will make their diagnosis on the outcome of these tests as well as information collected from the parents and teachers.

All parents find parenting difficult at times. Children are a blessing but there is a reason that they begin as cute little babies. If they arrived as toddlers, families would be smaller and the human race may be in danger of extinction! Add a child suffering from an illness such as ODD to the mix and we have the beginnings of a true nightmare. Parents of children suffering from this disorder need help and extra training – not because they are lacking in parental skills but because family life can resemble a war zone most of the time. These children would test the patience of a Saint never mind the normal parent. But the relationship between a child and their parents is crucial to the child’s happiness in later life. It is easier for a parent to deal with the affected child if they themselves have received proper training.

The coaching for parents is similar to that of other parenting classes. The parents are encouraged to learn to praise children when they exhibit flexibility and cooperate with them. In other words, you need to find your child being “good”. In between arguments, develop a habit of taking time out to assess yourself and your point of view. Try letting your child win a couple of battles – just make sure you win the War!

Eventually, you may find that the child will begin to copy your approach. A significant breakthrough occurs when a child with Oppositional Defiant Disorder asks or takes time out to consider their own actions.

Parents should try and make sure that they get sufficient “me” and “us” time. A well nourished, well rested parent has a better chance of staying patient with a demanding child. But it is also important not to forget the relationship between the parents. Having children tends to mean less time and energy for the original relationship but having difficult or ill children means even less relationship time. Try to arrange for a trusted babysitter at least twice a month to allow you both time to enjoy each other’s company and rediscover why you got together.

Positive parenting plays a big role in helping children with ODD. Children learn by example although as a parent I sometimes wonder why my kids only follow my bad examples!