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

Challenges In Treatment

Mental health professionals want parents to know there will be challenges at the beginning of treatment for oppositional defiant disorder, since all treatments are tailored to each child. Changing behavior as severe as what's seen in ODD does not occur overnight. Patients need firm parents who set boundaries and remain calm to set a good example. Parents must learn to be patient, to view setbacks with an open mind, and must be willing to work with their child's mental health counselor to revamp treatments as necessary for the best results in treating oppositional defiant disorder. The good news, however, is despite the challenges, it is possible patients can learn from a combination of different therapies and lifestyle changes.

Keep reading to uncover the potential complications linked to oppositional defiant disorder next.

Appearance of Other Mental Health Conditions

Oppositional defiant disorder often has a high comorbidity rate with other psychiatric issues. The appearance of other mental health conditions is a serious complication. In some cases, ODD can lead to these issues; in others, it may be part of a larger overarching personality disorder or illness. There's been a lot of study regarding oppositional defiant disorder and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and conduct disorders. There have also been studies indicating many children with ODD also have depression or an anxiety disorder. Researchers believe the disorders may be comorbid because they're related to the same chemical imbalance in the brain. It's also possible environmental factors play a role. For example, if a child with oppositional defiant disorder feels their caregivers are disconnecting from them, they may be more likely to develop anxiety and depression.

Read about the next complication now.