How to Identify Oppositional Defiant Disorder

All children act up from time to time. Their behavior can become disruptive as an expression of grief, anger or anxiety. In those instances, the behavioral problems may go away once the underlying cause is dealt with. However, in some cases the acting out can be a sign of a condition known as oppositional defiant disorder (ODD). Here are some ways to determine if a child’s behavioral problems are due to ODD.

Instructions

How to Identify Oppositional Defiant Disorder

• 1

  Observe if your child's behavioral problems are continuous and last for at least six months and if the child is disruptive at home and at school. Often these children have a hard time forming and maintaining positive relationships with their peers.

• 2

  Observe if your child is manifesting certain behaviors associated with ODD, including negativity, defiance, disobedience and hostility directed at authority figures.

• 3

  See if your child is consistently exhibiting symptoms of ODD, including frequent temper tantrums, arguing with adults, refusing to follow the rules, blaming others, vindictiveness, aggressiveness towards peers and poor grades.