Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD)

Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD)

All kids misbehave or are oppositional from time to time. They may talk back, disobey and even defy their parents and teachers or any other adult for this matter. Children with ODD do not follow rules. They blame everyone else for their mistakes and they have great difficulty accepting responsibility. According to the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, children with Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD), have an ongoing pattern of uncooperative, defiant, and hostile behavior toward authority figures that seriously interferes with the youngster's day to day functioning.

According the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Service Administration (SAMHSA’S), children with ODD may experience academic difficulties, poor relationships with peers or adults and higher rates of injuries, school expulsions, and problems with the law.

Some warning signs of conduct disorders may include:
• Lying or stealing
• Not doing well in school.
• Skipping school
• Early smoking, drinking or drug use.
• Consistent hostility toward authority figures.