What is oppositional defiant disorder in children

Behavior or Conduct Problems in Children. Minus Related Pages. For Healthcare Providers. If you need help finding treatment facilities, visit MentalHealth. To receive email updates about this topic, enter your email address: Email Address. What's this? Links with this icon indicate that you are leaving the CDC website. Linking to a non-federal website does not constitute an endorsement by CDC or any of its employees of the sponsors or the information and products presented on the website.

You will be subject to the destination website's privacy policy when you follow the link. Improving the parent-child relationship is a priority. This means that parents play a big role in treatment. Parent training programs can help parents learn to:. Parent training programs might include sessions with parents and children working together, or just parents alone. Some different programs include:. However, medication is sometimes used along with therapy. These include:. A small percentage of children diagnosed with ODD will go on to develop conduct disorder.

People with conduct disorder are likely to engage in: serious law-breaking behavior destruction of property cruelty to animals and people A child diagnosed with ODD is not automatically going to develop conduct disorder. The commitment and compassion with which we care for all children and families is matched only by the pioneering spirit of discovery and innovation that drives us to think differently, to find answers, and to build a better tomorrow for children everywhere.

Kevin B. Churchwell, President and CEO. Connect with Boston Children's Hospital. How can we help? The condition is more common in boys than in girls. These factors include:.

These behaviors can be developmentally appropriate, depending on the intensity, frequency and age of the child. The difference between normal behavior and ODD is that, with ODD, a child behaves this way more frequently and with more hostility than other children his or her age. Oppositional defiant disorder is diagnosed by a behavioral health specialist with experience in treating children with ODD.

An accurate diagnosis is vital to ensure the child receives the right treatment. Oppositional defiant disorder is best managed with the help of a behavioral health professional. Parents must also educate themselves and play an active role in the treatment process. Parent behavior management plays a crucial role in ODD treatment.