Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) is a type of behavior disorder that is commonly diagnosed in children and adolescents. Children with ODD are uncooperative, defiant, and hostile toward peers, parents, teachers, and other authority figures. They may frequently argue with adults, refuse to follow rules, and blame others for their own misbehaviors or mistakes. ODD also includes being spiteful and seeking revenge, a behavior called vindictiveness. These emotional and behavioral issues cause serious problems with family life, social activities, school, and work.

ODD is a complex problem, and possible risk factors for ODD include temperament, developmental problems, problems with parenting that may involve a lack of supervision, inconsistent or harsh discipline, or abuse or neglect, genetics, and environment. Children and teenagers with ODD may have trouble at home with parents and siblings, in school with teachers, and at work with supervisors and other authority figures. ODD may lead to other problems, such as poor school and work performance, antisocial behavior, legal problems, impulse control problems, substance use disorder, and suicide.

The majority of children and teens who have ODD also have at least one other mental health condition, including ADHD, anxiety disorders, learning differences, mood disorders, and impulse control disorders. About 30% of children with ODD develop a more serious behavior condition called conduct disorder. ODD behaviors can continue into adulthood if ODD isn’t properly diagnosed and treated.

In summary, ODD is a type of behavior disorder that is characterized by uncooperative, defiant, and hostile behavior towards peers, parents, teachers, and other authority figures. It is a complex problem that may have multiple risk factors and can lead to other problems if not properly diagnosed and treated.