A child who has an Oppositional Defiant Disorder exhibits a pattern of hostile, negativistic, and defiant behavior lasting at least half a year in time, during which four (or more) of the following are can be observed:
1. Is often spiteful or vindictive.
2. Often actively defies or refuses to comply with adults’ requests or rules.
3. Often loses temper.
4. Is often touchy or easily annoyed by others.
5. Often argues with adults.
6. Often deliberately annoys people.
7. Is often angry and resentful.
8. Often blames others for his or her mistakes or misbehavior.
In order that a diagnosis of Oppositional Defiant Disorder can be made, the disturbance in behavior must be causing significant problems in school, in relationships with family and friends, and in the workplace. ODD will not be diagnosed if the the therapist suspects that the teen’s behaviors are being directly caused by another psychotic or mood disorder, such as bipolar disorder.
It is a must to remember that a psychiatrist will consider a diagnosis of oppositional defiant disorder only if the behavior occurs more frequently than is typically observed in individuals of comparable age and developmental level. In other words, the problems and conflicts between teens and parents are as old as time itself, and some conflict is normal and inevitable. However, when the parent/child conflict becomes increasingly severe and appears to be spiraling out of control, then ODD might be considered.
Childern who have oppositional defiant disorder will show some of the same behaviors as those listed above for conduct disorder, including being very negative, angry and defiant. However, with ODD, one does not generally see the mean or cruel behavior that is present in conduct disorder, such as cruelty to animals.
Moreover, as kids in their ttenage years are growing and learning, they will sometimes do some very ill-advised things that can cause them problems, both legal and in school. However, if this behavior does not repeat itself and is a one-time event, then a behavior disorder is probably not present.