Opposition Defiant Disorder

You are here reading this because you have, or know of, a child that has what is called oppositional defiant disorder. Or at least believe, he or she has oppositional defiant disorder which is the clinical term. It's a mouth full and we will try and not get to clinical here.

As you probably know most children are oppositional or defiant and that is fine from time to time. The key is the frequency. Children, especially when they are young can be stressed, hungry or tired and show defiant behavior. That is completely normal. So you have to really take note of how often and what circumstance the behavior takes place.

You will know your child or one you are around often. If you are noting continual uncooperative behavior or possibly openly hostile aggression on a regular bases, there may be a problem. It is very important you don't jump to a preconceived conclusion. It is important you make notes of the frequency and the circumstances. You should also take it upon yourself to research all the symptoms and educate yourself.

Below are some symptoms you can look for if you are beginning to believe your child may have opposition defiant disorder. These symptoms may take place at home or out in public.

· Cannot control their temper or losses it quickly

· Can be openly uncooperative in just a few seconds

· Will often argue with you or other adults

· Often times will not comply or follow rules set by you

· Openly and deliberately will annoy you or other people

· Will not admit their mistakes when you know they are wrong

· Deliberately not taking responsibility for personal bad   behavior

· Hateful talking when they are made to follow rules

· When corrected will become spiteful and possibly vindictive.

As you know the above symptoms are not a pretty sight. Most parents and medical professionals familiar with this type of behavior understand what you might be going through. If your child, or one you know exhibits these types of behavior it can become a serious concern. It is also very stressful on you as the parent.

The exact clinically definable reasons are not completely known at this time. Most serious researcher believe social, psychological and possibly biological factors come into play. The interesting thing is other siblings may not have any symptoms and develop completely normally. You should know you are not alone. Statistics show up to 16% or school age children may suffer from oppositional defiant disorder.

If you feel your child, or one you know may be exhibiting a number of the above symptoms there is plenty of help out there for you. You can learn to adjust your behavior with very specific ways to reverse your child's behavior. Some good clinical studies have shown what parents can do to combat the defiant behavior. They are called Parent Management Training Programs.

Research those parenting tactics because they can change your child's behavior. Most children respond to the positive parenting techniques even if they don't suffer from oppositional defiant disorder. You also need to learn what is age specific. Certain responses apply to certain ages. Unfortunately one size does not fit all.

If you're still not sure about your child's behavior seek professional medical help. You should also consider consulting your family doctor to recommend a qualified mental health professional. Again, you will have to do your research if medication is prescribed. Medication should only be used in the more severe cases.

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