Oppositional Defiant Disorder Signs

A child with oppositional defiant disorder (ODD) shows a pattern of hostility, defiance and disobedience toward authority. ODD may occur before conduct disorder, a more serious behavior disorder, in some children. ODD occurs more often in boys than girls and usually begins by the age of eight. The signs of ODD must be present for at least six months to fit the diagnosis.

Rule Breaking

• A child with oppositional defiant disorder will question rules and requests and actively refuse to follow them.

Blaming Others

• The ODD child will blame others for their mistakes rather than take responsibility.

Friendships

• Those with ODD may have few friends or lose friends. They will try to annoy or upset others.

Anger

• Anger and resentment toward others is a common symptom of ODD. The child with oppositional defiant disorder may also seek revenge.

Temperament

• With oppositional defiant disorder, the child may be easily annoyed and touchy. He also may lose his temper easily and throw temper tantrums.