What does defiant child mean

Parents may be present for the entire session or may take part at the beginning or end. Sukhodolsky illustrates how this works with the example of a year-old boy who fights with his mother when she tells him to put his clothes in the hamper. The result? Both of these therapeutic approaches focus on emotion regulation, so that parents and child can understand the triggers for angry outbursts. Next comes problem solving, to explore potential solutions that everyone can accept, followed by a discussion on consequences.

Rewards are emphasized over punishments. Sukhodolsky urges families to emphasize positive interactions over bribes. At the Child Study Center, we have expertise in all mental health conditions that affect children—not just ODD and issues related to anger and aggression.

Yale provides access to a wide range of mental health services for children with complicated profiles. Enter email to download and get news and resources in your inbox. Share this on social. Family Resource Center Behavior Problems. When disruptive behavior drives a wedge between parents and children Rachel Ehmke.

How can parents help kids with ODD? What does treatment look like for ODD? Quick Read. Full Article. What is oppositional defiant disorder? What treatment for ODD looks like. Rachel Ehmke. Rachel Ehmke is managing editor at the Child Mind Institute. Was this article helpful? Explore Popular Topics. Behavior Problems. Learning Disorders. Box , Washington, DC The American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry AACAP represents over 9, child and adolescent psychiatrists who are physicians with at least five years of additional training beyond medical school in general adult and child and adolescent psychiatry.

Hard copies of Facts sheets may be reproduced for personal or educational use without written permission, but cannot be included in material presented for sale or profit. Facts sheets may not be reproduced, duplicated or posted on any other website without written consent from AACAP. Oppositional Defiant Disorder. Return to Table of Contents. If you need immediate assistance, please dial It is mostly diagnosed in childhood. Children with ODD are uncooperative, defiant, and hostile toward peers, parents, teachers, and other authority figures.

They are more troubling to others than they are to themselves. ODD is more common in boys than in girls. Children with the following mental health problems are also more likely to have ODD:. Most symptoms seen in children and teens with ODD also happen at times in other children without it. This is especially true for children around ages 2 or 3, or during the teen years. Many children tend to disobey, argue with parents, or defy authority.

They may often behave this way when they are tired, hungry, or upset. But in children and teens with ODD, these symptoms happen more often. They also interfere with learning and school adjustment.

These symptoms may look like other mental health problems. Make sure your child sees his or her healthcare provider for a diagnosis. If you notice symptoms of ODD in your child or teen, you can help by seeking a diagnosis right away. Early treatment can often prevent future problems. A child psychiatrist or qualified mental health expert can diagnose ODD.

In some cases, your child may need mental health testing. It will also depend on how bad the ODD is. Children with ODD may need to try different therapists and types of therapies before they find what works for them. Treatment may include:.