Youth Care Treatment Center and school has helped teens with ODD all over the United States for 30 years. Our unique approach is based off of solid morals and beliefs to help adolescents be successful in turning their lives around.

Understanding ODD

Learn about ODD

Oppositional defiant disorder (ODD) is characterized by hostile, defiant, and disobedient behaviors. This mental health condition often occurs during childhood, and is most obvious when a child interacts with an authority figure such as a teacher, parent, or other individual who is in a position of power. Those with ODD will continuously disobey and defy direction even if they are faced with significant consequences. Since a disregard such as this is present, there are many long-term effects that can develop if the child does not receive appropriate treatment.

In addition to the many behavioral symptoms a child with ODD might exhibit, there are many mood-related symptoms that develop in someone with this disorder. Agitated and angry outbursts are common, which can add to acting out when triggered. Luckily, there are options for care available that can help reduce these symptoms, put an end to destructive behaviors, and help children understand how important controlling impulses is. The most imperative thing to know is that symptoms of ODD do not have to continue, as it is possible to defeat the obstacles linked to this disorder.

Statistics

ODD statistics

Experts show that more than 10% of children meet the criteria needed to be diagnosed with ODD. Boys are more likely to develop this disorder than are girls, with 11% of pre-pubescent boys having ODD in comparison to 9% of pre-pubescent girls. In addition, boys and girls will present with different symptoms and will do so with varying levels of severity. However, even though there are differences in the prevalence of symptoms among boys and girls, research has shown that nearly 70% of children with ODD will not struggle with these symptoms by the time they enter into late adolescence.

Causes and Risk Factors

Causes and risk factors for ODD

Researchers agree that there are many causes and risk factors that add to the development of ODD. Some of the most common explanations are:

Genetic: Having a family history of mental health disorders like depressive disorders, personality disorders, and bipolar disorder are said to add to one’s likelihood of developing symptoms of ODD. Researchers, as a result, believe that genes play a role in the development of ODD.

Environmental: Experts feel strongly that environmental factors play a major role in the development of this disorder. Since the onset of ODD happens during childhood, the environment in which a child is brought up in can influence his or her likelihood of developing ODD. Living in a chaotic or stressful home, being exposed to neglect, abuse, or trauma, and witnessing violence and aggressive behaviors by caregivers can cause the development of ODD to occur.

Risk Factors:

Inconsistent parenting
Exposure to substance use or abuse
Family history of mental illness
Witnessing violent or aggressive behaviors
Exposure to trauma / abuse/ neglect
Being raised in a chaotic / stressful home

Signs and Symptoms

Signs and symptoms of ODD

Signs and symptoms connected to ODD can vary based on one’s age and gender. When looking into treatment for Oppositional Defiant Disorder, it is crucial to note the presence of any of the symptoms listed below:

Behavioral symptoms: