Disruptive Disorders and Behavioral Problems
All children can be difficult and challenging at times. However, if a child or teenager has a frequent or persistent pattern of anger, irritability, defiance, or vindictiveness toward parents or other authority figures, s/he may have oppositional defiant disorder (ODD). Because of an intolerance for boredom and propensity for emotional lability, about half of children with ADHD exhibit behavioral problems that are severe enough to warrant a diagnosis of ODD.
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), published by the American Psychiatric Association, lists the following criteria for diagnosis ODD:
- Angry and irritable mood:
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- Often loses temper
- Is often touchy or easily annoyed by others
- Is often angry and resentful
- Argumentative and defiant behavior:
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- Often argues with adults or people in authority
- Often actively defies or refuses to comply with adults’ requests or rules
- Often deliberately annoys people
- Often blames others for his or her mistakes or misbehavior
- Vindictiveness:
- Has been spiteful or vindictive at least twice within the last six months
These symptoms must last at least six months to qualify for a diagnosis of ODD. For some children, symptoms may first be seen only at home, but with time, extend to other settings, such as school or with friends. Treatment for these children typically includes behavior modification, parent training, and/or medication.
We invite you to review the services that Upcounty Neuropsychology offers and to feel free to call us or contact us online for more information or to request an appointment
