How is oppositional defiant disorder treated

Children with the following mental health problems are also more likely to have ODD:. Most symptoms seen in children and teens with ODD also happen at times in other children without it. This is especially true for children around ages 2 or 3, or during the teen years. Many children tend to disobey, argue with parents, or defy authority.

They may often behave this way when they are tired, hungry, or upset. But in children and teens with ODD, these symptoms happen more often. They also interfere with learning and school adjustment. These symptoms may look like other mental health problems.

Make sure your child sees his or her healthcare provider for a diagnosis. If you notice symptoms of ODD in your child or teen, you can help by seeking a diagnosis right away.

Early treatment can often prevent future problems. A child psychiatrist or qualified mental health expert can diagnose ODD. In some cases, your child may need mental health testing.

It will also depend on how bad the ODD is. Children with ODD may need to try different therapists and types of therapies before they find what works for them.

Treatment may include:. But certain approaches can help prevent the disorder. Young children be helped by early intervention programs that teach them social skills and how to deal with anger. For teens, talk therapy psychotherapy , learning social skills, and getting help with schoolwork can all help reduce problem behaviors. School-based programs can also help to stop bullying and improve relationships among teens.

Mayo Clinic does not endorse companies or products. Advertising revenue supports our not-for-profit mission. This content does not have an English version. This content does not have an Arabic version. Overview Even the best-behaved children can be difficult and challenging at times. Request an Appointment at Mayo Clinic. Share on: Facebook Twitter. Show references Oppositional defiant disorder.

Arlington, Va. Accessed Nov. Gabbard GO, ed. Oppositional defiant disorder. In: Gabbard's Treatments of Psychiatric Disorders. Social support is increased if the parents are trained in groups with other parents who have children with ODD Functional family therapy — to teach all family members to communicate and problem-solve more effectively Consistency of care — all carers of the child including parents, grandparents, teachers, child care workers and so on need to be consistent in the way they behave towards and manage the child.

Jerome M. Sattler, San Diego. Give feedback about this page. Was this page helpful? Yes No. View all behavioural conditions. Related information. From other websites Mayo Clinic — Oppositional defiant disorder. Content disclaimer Content on this website is provided for information purposes only. Share this on social.

Family Resource Center Guides. What is oppositional defiant disorder? What are the symptoms of oppositional defiant disorder? Children with ODD have a pattern of behavior problems.

Here are some common symptoms: Being unusually angry and irritable Frequently losing their temper Being easily annoyed Arguing with authority figures Refusing to follow rules Annoying people on purpose Blaming others for mistakes Some children with ODD struggle with disruptive behavior in school.

How is oppositional defiant disorder diagnosed? ODD is typically diagnosed in kids in elementary school.