What Is Oppositional Defiant Disorder And Could My Child Have It?

Increase Risk of Substance Abuse

Oppositional defiance disorder can increase the risk of substance abuse. Children and adolescents with ODD tend to exhibit more self-destructive behavior than the average teen. Their conflicts with authority and peers may be an extension of this self-destructive behavior. In addition, when they feel isolated from others, they may be more likely to use substance abuse to self medicate. Substance abuse may also be used as another form of defiance against authority. It's important to treat substance abuse issues that occur alongside ODD, since the use of substances can exacerbate behaviors and lead to more risky, impulsive decision making. What starts as occasional substance use can often spiral into abuse and dependence that requires treatment at a detox facility or rehab.