Oppositional Defiant Disorder Resource Center
Last updated June 2019
About
In children with Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD), there is an ongoing pattern of uncooperative, defiant, and hostile behavior toward authority figures that seriously interferes with the youngster's day to day functioning.
All children are oppositional from time to time, particularly when tired, hungry, stressed or upset. They may argue, talk back, disobey, and defy parents, teachers, and other adults. Oppositional behavior is often a normal part of development for two to three year olds and early adolescents.
However, openly uncooperative and hostile behavior becomes a serious concern when it is so frequent and consistent that it stands out when compared with other children of the same age and developmental level and when it affects the child's social, family, and academic life.
For additional information see:
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Frequently Asked Questions
- What causes Oppositional Defiant Disorder?
- Does Oppositional Defiant Disorder get better or go away over time?
- How is Oppositional Defiant Disorder treated?
- Can Oppositional Defiant Disorder be prevented?
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Facts for Families
AACAP's Facts for Families provide concise up-to-date information on issues that affect children, teenagers, and their families.
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Video Clips
Coming soon!
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Clinical Resources
Lifelong Learning Modules
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Research and Training
Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry
US Juveniles With Conduct Problems Face High Risk of Premature Death
Meetings and Online CME
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Books
AACAP's publications, Your Child and Your Adolescent, offer accessible, comprehensive information about the emotional development and behavior of children from infancy through the teenage years.
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Getting Help
Getting help is the most important thing that parents can do for children and adolescents with oppositional defiant disorder. Parents should try to find a mental health professional who has advanced training and experience with evaluating and treating children, adolescents, and families. It is important to find a comfortable match between your child, your family, and the mental health professional.
A child and adolescent psychiatrist is a physician who specializes in the diagnosis and, treatment of disorders of thinking, feeling and behavior that affect children, adolescents, and their families. Child and adolescent psychiatrists have completed four years of medical school, at least three years of residency training in medicine, neurology, or general psychiatry with adults, and two years of additional training in psychiatric work with children, adolescents, and their families.
Click here to find a child and adolescent psychiatrist in your area.
Bear in mind that because of the extensive training required, there is a nationwide shortage of child and adolescent psychiatrists. To learn more about other mental health professionals and places where families can find help, read Where to Find Help For Your Child.
Related Web Sites
This program was made possible by a grant from the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry's Campaign for America's Kids.
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