The symptoms of ODD are symptoms that all children will show at some stages but with ODD these symptoms are very constant. There are very few moments when an ODD child will be well behaved which can be very stressful on their parents. Because the defiant behavior occurs so frequently it can interfere with their schooling, learning and also with their relationships with their family and their peers.

The symptoms of ODD include:

• Frequent arguments with authority figures
• Frequent temper tantrums
• Refusal to obey adults requests
• Refusal to follow rules
• Will blame others for their behaviors or mistakes
• Will be more sensitive than normal and will be easily annoyed by others
• Continually try to upset or annoy others
• Speak in an unkind or harsh manner
• Will always want to have the last word and will often seek to get revenge

Some of the symptoms of oppositional defiant disorder may also be present in other behavior disorders so it is important to have your child assessed if you think they may suffer from ODD or any other disorder.

How Is ODD diagnosed?

A parent will usually know if their child’s behavior is beyond normal naughy behavior and may seek help to find out if their child does have a behavior disorder. Sometimes it may be a teacher or other authority figure that may suggest that the child might have a disorder. The child will need to be assessed by a child psychiatrist for them to be able to make an actual diagnosis.

A psychiatrist will take a detailed history of the child’s behaviors given by the parents and will also observe the child’s behavior and talk to the child. It may take a couple of visits to a psychiatrist for them to become familiar enough with the child to be able to make a diagnosis.

If you suspect your child may suffer from ODD or any other behavior disorder then early intervention will give the best results. If you can start treating the disorder at an early age you will have a much better chance of preventing future problems.

Children with ODD will often also have other mental health disorders such as anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, conduct disorder or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). This is why it is so important to have your child assessed by a professional to ensure a correct diagnosis and so that if they suffer from more than one disorder that all disorders are treated.

What is ODD?
Treatment for ODD