Oppositional defiant disorder (ODD) is regarded as a mental health disorder and often co-exists with ADHD as the two are closely related.
In regards to ODD, nobody is quite sure what the cause is but certainly there may be a genetic link, a neurological or biochemical component may also be contributing factors.
Add to that the family's reaction to the condition together with the child's own personality and the clinical picture becomes rather complicated to say the least.
Basically, parents should note that violent and defiant outbursts which normally happen to any child, may be present rather often and persisting to the point that it interferes with the child's development and is in marked contrast to other children's development, particularly noted when comparing the child to his peers and siblings.
The parents will note that there is not only an alarming frequency to pick a fight with figures in authority and parents always seem to be in the front line! The child is angry, has frequent tantrums and is revengeful, argumentative and generally defiant.
What are the options for parents when confronted with a child who has oppositional defiant disorder? Certainly learning parenting skills is essential and especially as you are going to have to face opposition at every turn.
That can usually be acquired by following a behavioral modification course or attending family therapy sessions with a counsellor which could be on the expensive side.
What sort of things will you learn so that you can make life bearable again in your family? Bonding with the child is important and the best way is to do some sporting activities and /or outdoor activities together.
If there is an element of hyperactivity or just wanting to let off violent feelings, sports can be a great way of doing that.
Add to that the releasing of the feel good endorphins and you have a healthy outlet for pent up anger.
Other options include remaining calm and avoiding situations which you know are likely to spark an outburst.
Setting routines and eating together as a family can also help.
Regular schedules offer a structure and this is important for the parties involved.
If you find your child wants to pick a fight with you the moment you walk in the door, make sure that you establish an official winding down time so that both children and parents can begin to relax.
Behavioral therapy is the most important element in the treatment and medication is sometimes advised although you will need to look carefully at these as there are some nasty side effects.
Experts now tell us that the behavioral therapy program is by far the most effective in dealing with oppositional defiant disorder.
In regards to ODD, nobody is quite sure what the cause is but certainly there may be a genetic link, a neurological or biochemical component may also be contributing factors.
Add to that the family's reaction to the condition together with the child's own personality and the clinical picture becomes rather complicated to say the least.
Basically, parents should note that violent and defiant outbursts which normally happen to any child, may be present rather often and persisting to the point that it interferes with the child's development and is in marked contrast to other children's development, particularly noted when comparing the child to his peers and siblings.
The parents will note that there is not only an alarming frequency to pick a fight with figures in authority and parents always seem to be in the front line! The child is angry, has frequent tantrums and is revengeful, argumentative and generally defiant.
What are the options for parents when confronted with a child who has oppositional defiant disorder? Certainly learning parenting skills is essential and especially as you are going to have to face opposition at every turn.
That can usually be acquired by following a behavioral modification course or attending family therapy sessions with a counsellor which could be on the expensive side.
What sort of things will you learn so that you can make life bearable again in your family? Bonding with the child is important and the best way is to do some sporting activities and /or outdoor activities together.
If there is an element of hyperactivity or just wanting to let off violent feelings, sports can be a great way of doing that.
Add to that the releasing of the feel good endorphins and you have a healthy outlet for pent up anger.
Other options include remaining calm and avoiding situations which you know are likely to spark an outburst.
Setting routines and eating together as a family can also help.
Regular schedules offer a structure and this is important for the parties involved.
If you find your child wants to pick a fight with you the moment you walk in the door, make sure that you establish an official winding down time so that both children and parents can begin to relax.
Behavioral therapy is the most important element in the treatment and medication is sometimes advised although you will need to look carefully at these as there are some nasty side effects.
Experts now tell us that the behavioral therapy program is by far the most effective in dealing with oppositional defiant disorder.