1. Normal Childhood Behavior or Something More
All children can be strong-willed at times. Parents expect their children to test limits and react in a negative way when they're tired or upset. This is a completely normal part of childhood development, particularly in toddlers and again in teenagers. However, if your child's behavior becomes so extreme it interferes with everyday life, you need to check it out with a professional. Oppositional Defiant Disorder, also known as ODD, is a behavioral disorder that causes a child to display a pattern of hostile and defiant behavior. It is more common in boys and usually makes itself known by age eight.
2. When Parents Need to Take Action
Two-year-olds have tantrums, elementary age boys get in fight and teenagers occasionally take the car without asking. This is not Oppositional Defiant Disorder. A child with ODD shows a consistent and long-lasting pattern of defiant behavior. He loses his temper frequently and argues with adults, actively defying their requests. He can be angry and vindictive. His symptoms cause significant social and school problems. Fire setting and harming pets are two of the more severe symptoms.
3. Get Past the Guilt
Researchers haven't been able to pinpoint a clear cause of ODD. However, they believe several factors can contribute, including a chemical imbalance in the brain. A parent who has a mood disorder seems to be more likely to have a child with ODD. Family instability may also contribute. A significant number of these children have AD/HD and many have learning disorders. Although there does appear to be a relationship between parental problems and ODD in children, it's important not to blame yourself if your child has ODD. It's difficult enough to parent a challenging child without adding in a guilt factor. There is help available.
4. Professional Diagnosis is Necessary for ODD
A diagnosis of Oppositional Defiant Disorder is up to a professional. Your pediatrician can refer you to a psychologist or psychiatrist who has expertise in this complicated disorder. The specialist will talk with both you and your child to get a detailed history. He will rule out other problems first before making the diagnosis. Could this be a severe case of AD/HD? Some children may become defiant because of a physical problem that has been undetected, such as hearing loss. Children with an undiagnosed bipolar disorder may have some of the same symptoms as ODD.
5. Set a Treatment Plan
The doctor will lay out a specific plan if the diagnosis is ODD. He will first order treatment for any other problems, such as AD/HD. There are several excellent medications for this, which can help reduce negative behavior. He will coach you in successful parenting skills, including the use of time out. Strengthening your relationship with your child through consistent discipline and positive reinforcement will go a long way toward improved behavior. It won't happen overnight, but it can make a tremendous difference over time.
