Oppositional Defiant Disorder: What to Know as a Parent or Caretaker

If you or someone you know is a parent or caretaker of a child that has been diagnosed with Oppositional Defiant Disorder, then you know how difficult it can be. It’s important to not lose hope and know you do not have to manage this challenge alone. There are many resources to help you and your child manage this disorder. The road to peaceful parenting comes with knowing a little bit about Oppositional Defiant Disorder, the challenges that come with it, and identifying the resources that are available to help.

What is Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD)?

Oppositional Defiant Disorder is a type of behavior disorder that is often diagnosed in childhood. It includes uncooperative, defiant behavior towards other children. This behavior can also be directed at adults or authority and can put another person, or themselves, at risk. It can be troubling for parents to understand what a normal temper tantrum is versus a disorder that needs to be diagnosed, which is often why parents wait to seek professional assistance.

Some of the symptoms of ODD may resemble ADHD, and many parents will schedule an appointment for ADHD testing in Overland Park only to find out the issue is not ADHD related. Instead, their child is diagnosed with Oppositional Defiant Disorder. Getting an early diagnosis and treatment gives your child the best chance at a positive outcome, so it’s essential to get assessments such as personality and learning disability evaluations in Overland Park. Doing these immediately gives you the resources needed to best treat ODD.

Also, remember that co-occurring disorders are common with ODD, such as anxiety, depression, and Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD). So, it is very important to schedule an Overland Park ADHD evaluation to get to the root of the issue.

What Are Some Common Symptoms of Oppositional Defiant Disorder?

• Argues with adults at school and home often
• Not willing to listen to direction
• Questions common rules
• Frequent outbursts for what seem like everyday things
• Angers easily or remains angry often
• Blames others for causing their behavior to decline
• Vindictive reactions or constantly spiteful

It’s important to remember that these behaviors can be mild, moderate, or severe depending on many variables. For example, the symptoms might be severe at home but more mild at school, or vice versa. Take note if the behavior restricts relationships at home, school, or other settings. It might be time to consider testing and education for ODD since early intervention can minimize symptoms.

What Are Common Treatment Methods?

1. The first step is testing for co-occurring disorders. This can include an Overland Park ADHD evaluation, or in some cases, an autism assessment in Overland Park to rule out any other disorders.
2. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) can solve problems by helping to communicate and connect thoughts, feelings, and physical body sensations to overcome negative and overwhelming thoughts.
3. Other forms of therapies include family therapy, peer group therapy, and even medications when necessary.

If you are struggling to find the right support for your child, contact me, Dr. Tish Taylor, Ph.D. I am a licensed child psychologist who specializes in Overland Park ADHD testing. My experience working in and with schools makes me a valuable resource for parents. I have a wide range of experience with diagnoses, including ADHD, dyslexia, executive functioning deficits, anxiety, mood, and behavior problems. I utilize the latest research to create intervention methods to give your child and your family the support they need, including learning disability evaluations in Overland Park.

You can reach me at (913) 738-4177 or visit my website to learn more about the services I offer. You can also get in touch with me by filling out this contact form. I look forward to assisting you.

You can also receive guidance through my books focused on Fostering Connection and Parenting with ADHD. Click here to find out more about these publications and how they can be a major benefit to you and your child. I also offer webinars focused on developing an intervention plan and how to get through to a child that struggles with listening. You can learn more about these two helpful classes by clicking here.