What Is Oppositional Defiant Disorder?

Conduct Disorder (CD) is a more severe type of behavioral disorder than Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) and is more likely to develop in kids with ADHD. According to the publication of the American Psychiatric Association that provides current diagnostic criteria for all recognized psychiatric disorders, the essential feature of Conduct Disorder is "...a repetitive and persistent pattern of behavior in which the basic rights of others or age appropriate social norms or rules are violated." These behaviors fall into 4 main groupings: Serious violation of rules (e.g., truancy from school; running away from home; staying out at night prior to age 13) Non-aggressive conduct that causes property loss or damage (e.g., fire setting with intent to cause damage; deliberate destruction of property) Deceitfulness or theft (e.g., shoplifting; breaking into someone's house; frequent lying to obtain goods or avoid obligations) Aggressive behavior that causes or threatens t

The first thing to keep in mind is this 10 letter word: PREVENTION. Once an ODD student has it out for you (i.e., you’re on his/her hit list), then it is nearly impossible to re-establish a positive relationship with that child. It is helpful to understand how ODD children think when trying to come up with prevention methods. How does a student with ODD think? “Because I know how much you want me to change, I will be very stubborn about changing behaviors.” “I am equal to those in authority.” “In spite of experiencing your intended punishments and/or rewards, if I change, it will be on my time and for me.” “My greatest sense of control comes from how I make others feel.” “No one has the right to tell me what to do.” “When you punish or reward me, I feel that you are trying to control or manipulate me.” “Yes, I sometimes do the wrong thing, but it is usually your fault.” Now let’s look at the prevention methods that work best with ODD students: 1. Act, don’t dis