Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD)

Definition:

Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) is a behavioral disorder that is characterized by aggressive, defiant, negativistic, irritable and annoying behaviors towards peers and authority figures, such as parents and teachers.  The causes of ODD are unknown however there are two main theories:

• The developmental theory suggests that the behaviors begin when children are toddlers.  This theory also suggests that the child had difficulties separating from their attachment figure and establishing independent skills.  The negative behaviors are seen as a continuation of normal developmental issues that were not resolved when the child was a toddler. 
• The other theory of ODD is a learning theory that suggests that the negative behaviors are learned by replicating the negative reinforcement techniques that were used by parents and authority figures.  The use of negative reinforcement by parents is understood as increasing the rate and intensity of these behaviors because the child receives attention, time and concern from the parent or other authority figures. 

ODD effects 10% to 15% of children and adolescents and is more common in males than females.  The diagnosis of ODD is usually made before the age of eight but no later than adolescents.  ODD can also occur with conditions, such as Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and Conduct Disorder, which can make the intensity and management of behavior more troublesome.