

7 There are also notable differences in the presentation of ODD based upon age, gender, and environmental factors. 6 The prevalence of ODD reported across clinical studies varies widely (1% to 11%), even reaching as high as 15.6% in some community samples. 5 Who is affected by oppositional defiant disorder?ĭisruptive behavior disorders such as ODD are considered to be the most prevalent childhood psychiatric conditions in need of psychological services. 1 The relation between these contextual factors and the development of ODD has also been described in terms of “coercive family processes” in which symptoms are brought about by an interaction between a difficult child temperament and reactive, authoritarian and inconsistent parenting. Current research findings suggest that ODD symptoms are most directly accounted for by families’ reports of parenting stress and poorer family functioning overall.

3Įnvironmental factors known to contribute to the emergence of ODD include higher family conflict and parenting stress as well as multiple socioeconomic variables. But there are no known biological or genetic predictors specific to the disorder. ODD is widely believed to be influenced by individual child temperament. What causes oppositional defiant disorder? Further, the primary problems associated with ODD are distinct from other conditions in that they frequently violate the rights of others. ODD-related problems not only negatively affect the child’s daily functioning, but also interfere with relationships with peers, family members, teachers and other caregivers. ODD symptoms can be extremely disruptive in nature and they often coincide with other childhood problems such as Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Anxiety and Mood related conditions.

1 There are 2 primary symptom categories used to diagnose ODD, externalizing behavior problems and negative emotions. Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) is a behavioral condition, usually diagnosed in childhood, which consists of strongly embedded patterns of negative reactions to authority, willful noncompliance, irritable mood, and negative attention-seeking behaviors.
