What Is Oppositional Defiant Disorder?

Behavior disorders (sometimes referred to as disruptive behavior disorders) are the most common reasons kids are referred for mental health evaluations and treatment. All disruptive behavior is not the same. Behavior disorders include mental health problems which include behaviors and emotional problems that create interpersonal and emotional problems for kids and teens during the course of their development. The most common behavior disorder in kids is ADHD, which includes inattentive, impulsive, and hyperactive behaviors. ODD (Oppositional Defiant Disorder) is another behavior disorder that includes behaviors disruptive to relationships with others (i.e., angry and resentful oppositional behavior). Conduct Disorder (CD) involves behaviors which violate social norms and expectations. 1. Attention-Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)— ADHD, usually first diagnosed in childhood, is characterized by inattention, impulsiveness, and, in some cases, hyperactivity. These symptoms us

Violent behavior in kids and teens with Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) can include a wide range of behaviors: cruelty toward animals explosive temper tantrums fighting fire setting intentional destruction of property physical aggression threats or attempts to hurt others (including homicidal thoughts) use of weapons vandalism Numerous research studies have concluded that a complex interaction or combination of factors leads to an increased risk of violent behavior in ODD kids and teens. These factors include: Being the victim of physical abuse and/or sexual abuse Brain damage from head injury Combination of stressful family socioeconomic factors (e.g., poverty, severe deprivation, marital breakup, single parenting, unemployment, loss of support from extended family, etc.) Exposure to violence in media (e.g., TV, movies, etc.) Exposure to violence in the home and/or community Genetic factors Presence of firearms in home Previous aggressive or violent