What is Oppositional Defiant Disorder?
Even the most well-behaved children may be difficult and challenging at times. But if your child or teenager has a frequent and chronic pattern of anger, irritability, arguing, defiance or vindictiveness towards you and different authority figures, he or she may be suffering from oppositional defiant disorder (ODD).
Understanding the difference between a strong-willed child or one that is overly emotional and one with oppositional defiant disorder or conduct disorder isn’t always easy. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-five), posted via the American Psychiatric Association, lists standards for diagnosing ODD and conduct behavior. The DSM-5 standards encompass emotional and behavioral symptoms that are regular and recurring over time which has been established as being a minimum of six months.
Angry and irritable mood:
Often and without provocation they lose control of their temper
They are easily angered by and resentful of others
Moods can change very quickly and behaviors fast turn negativeArgumentative and defiant behavior and conduct:
They love to argue with others over anything and everything
They display high levels of defiance, just saying the word NO can bring negative conduct
They intentionally irritate and annoy others, usually with some delight
They most often blame others for his or her errors or misbehavior
They possess an outright disregard for authority and refuse to follow rulesVindictiveness:
They are prone to acts of physical violence, destruction and aggression
Known to be spiteful, vindictive and looking for retaliation even for minor incidents or acts
Someone with oppositional defiant disorder or conduct disorder isn’t likely to see their conduct as being problematic. Instead, they tend to have complaints about unreasonable needs and to blame others for troubles. If you’re noticing signs and symptoms which could imply ODD or conduct disorder, or you’re concerned about the safety or well being of others or struggling with parenting due to severity of symptoms, problems in school, etc. it may be time to consult with your health care provider, psychologist, therapist or psychiatrist with knowledge in disruptive conduct issues.
Getting treatment for oppositional defiant disorder or conduct disorder is necessary in order to stop these behaviors and to help those affected to do better.
When looking at diagnosing ODD or conduct behavior, it’s important to note that usually people start by being diagnosed with ODD. Conduct disorder is a higher level of severity which includes criminal acts such as stealing, hurting or harming other people, high levels of violence or destructive behaviors and settling fires.
While there is no prescription medication specifically for treatment of ODD or conduct disorders, prescriptions are available to reduce some of the symptoms.
Getting help from psychiatrists, counselors and behavioral therapy can be helpful.
Using positive parenting techniques is very effective and when used along with medication, the behaviors can improve.
Medication for ODD and conduct behavior is usually prescribed by psychiatrists. Seroquel and Risperidone are popular medications for oppositional defiance and conduct disorders. Residential treatment is something that parents consider for children that are extremely violent and for which behaviors that endanger others.
Psychiatric clinical trials show that nutrient treatment can also be particularly effective in managing behavior problems, symptoms of ODD and conduct disorder. SNAP nutrients are a natural treatment for ODD and conduct that helps to relieve the behavioral issues associated with these disorders by affecting the brain areas responsible.