As children grow older, testing boundaries and arguing are considered normal parts of development. For children with Oppositional Defiance Disorder (ODD), however, these behaviors have grown to encompass almost all interactions with authority figures like parents or teachers. Refusing or deliberately disobeying rules, having temper tantrums at a later age than peers, constantly arguing or talking back, and outright refusal to take responsibility/blaming others are some of the behaviors that could mean a child has ODD.

How Can Therapy Help?

Therapy can be useful for both the child and his/her parents or primary caregivers. A therapist will use age-appropriate methods to help the child cope with runaway emotions and communicate needs in a more constructive manner, among other things. For the parent of a child with ODD, the therapist will work on helping the parent set boundaries, communicate, and manage his/her own emotions. The therapist may also discuss ways to manage the disorder, such as alternative approaches that can be taken to enforce rules and norms.