What is oppositional defiant disorder?
Oppositional means being opposed to (against) things. Defiant means not doing what you're told.
Oppositional defiant disorder is:
Many children act this way sometimes, but a child with oppositional defiant disorder acts this way over and over again. To be considered a disorder, the child's behavior has to be serious enough to harm relationships or schoolwork.
Children with this disorder commonly:
However, children with oppositional defiant disorder do know the difference between right and wrong.
Oppositional defiant behavior usually starts in preschool. However, it may not start until elementary school or even middle school.
How can doctors tell if my child has oppositional defiant disorder?
Doctors will ask about your child's symptoms and behavior.
Doctors make sure your child doesn't have another problem that can cause similar symptoms. Such problems include anxiety, depression, or ADHD.
