The American Psychiatric Association Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition, (DSM-IV) defines oppositional defiant disorder (ODD) as a recurrent pattern of negativistic, defiant, disobedient, and hostile behavior toward authority figures that persists for at least 6 months. Behaviors included in the definition are losing one's temper, arguing with adults, actively defying requests, refusing to follow rules, deliberately annoying others, blaming others for one's own mistakes or misbehavior, being touchy, easily annoyed or angered, resentful, spiteful or vindictive. The most effective treatment for children with ODD appears to be social competence training, the teaching of specific emotional, behavioral, and social skills.
How to best interact with such children.
- Use short explanations of ten words or fewer.
- Say exactly what you want.
- Speak calmly and clearly.
- Make eye contact and control your facial expression, posture, and gestures.
- Talk about what is happening right now.
- Focus on solutions, not problems.
- Ask questions and get feedback.
- See the child as a whole person with strengths and weaknesses.
