ODD is a behavioral disorder that results in defense and anger against authority. It can affect a person’s work, school and social life. ODD is more common in boys than girls. The symptoms of ODD are mainly found between the ages of 6 to 8 years.

Symptoms of ODD

• Frequent temper tantrums or episodes of anger.
• Refusal to comply with adult requests.
• Excessive arguing with adult and authority figures
• Always questioning or actively disregarding rules
• Behaviour in tended to upset annoy or anger others especially authority figures.
• Blaming others for their own mistakes or misbehaviours
• Being easily annoyed

Treatment for ODD

Early treatment is essential for people with ODD. Teens and adults with untreated ODD have increased risk for depression and substance abuse. Major therapies provided for ODD are the following:

• Individual cognitive behavioural therapy

It includes anger management skills, communication skills impulse control and problem solving skills.

• Family therapy

Work with the whole family to make changes. This can help parents to find support and learning strategies for handling their child’s ODD.

Parent child interaction therapy and creation of peer groups are also provided as a treatment for ODD.

Medications

Medications are used to treat he causes of ODD such as depression or ADHD.

More than medications and therapies we can use the following techniques also:

• Increase positive reinforcements and reducing negative reinforcements.
• Using consistent punishment for bad behaviors
• Using predictable and immediate parenting responses.
• Modelling positive interactions in the household.
• Reducing environmental or situational triggers.
• Use behaviour modification techniques.