Children Act Out

• Just because a child acts out or misbehaves in public or at home does not mean the child necessarily has Oppositional Defiant Disorder. This is normal behavior for children when they realize they cannot get their way or are uncomfortable.
  
  

Excessive Defiant Behavior

• When a child begins exhibiting conduct that is violent, hostile and uncooperative on an ongoing basis and goes far beyond what is termed as normal defiant behavior (as stated above) at home, in public, and/or at school and displays, this child may have Oppositional Defiant Disorder.
  
  

Symptoms

• When the following symptoms are seen on a continuing basis, mainly at school or at home, an evaluation may be necessary: frequent temper tantrums, repeated arguments with adults, questioning of rules and authority, deliberately annoying or upsetting others, blaming others, appearing touchy or easily annoyed by others, constant anger and resentment, hateful tone of voice and an overall spiteful attitude.
  
  

Evaluation

• It is important that children who display the above-mentioned symptoms be given a thorough evaluation. The child might have another attention-related disorder.
  
  

Treatment

• Depending on how severe the child is, a range of therapy might apply. Possible treatment options are family and/or individual psychotherapy, social and/or cognitive skills training or parent management training. Medication might also be necessary.
  
  

Coping and Resources

• Parents may find having a child with this disorder to be difficult. One of the most important things to keep in mind is that parents should remain calm and act as a role model for the child. Training for parents is available, as are support groups of parents with children with Oppositional Defiant Disorder.