What Do I Do With My Oppositional Defiant Disorder Teen?

Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) is a condition which presents in approximately 6-10% of children before the age of 8. It is characterized by a persistent set of negative behaviors toward parents or other authority figure. Some of the symptoms of ODD are:

 

Although many of these symptoms appear in every child at some point, those with ODD show a pattern of consistency with four or more for a period of six months or longer. Because Oppositional Defiant Disorder frequently co-exists with similar conditions or can be mistaken for mood disorders with similar symptoms, children with suspected ODD should be evaluated by a qualified mental health professional. Although early therapeutic intervention is the most effective way to deal with ODD, some kids do not get diagnosed until adolescence. As children with ODD reach adolescence, the characteristics that define the disorder begin to cause more harm as they become more and more unmanageable. One of the most prominent characteristics in kids with ODD is the persistent belief that they have been wronged, which enables the negative acting out. Violent reactions which were concerning in younger children may be dangerous in a teen and intimidating to those attempting to parent or manage them. 

 

Oppositional Defiant Disorder Treatment Options

 

Treating teens for Oppositional Defiant Disorder can be very challenging since the condition causes them to be resistant to any type of instruction or training. There are multiple options mental health professionals recommend to parents depending on the severity of the disorder as well as the level of parental involvement. Counseling, both individual and with the parents, can be helpful as teens learn to cope with daily triggers without aggression and parents learn more effective ways to handle their troubled child. Some teens may also benefit from social skill training, which teaches them how to interact with peers more positively. Although there is no pharmaceutical cure for ODD, some mental health professionals may prescribe medication that helps with the accompanying symptoms, such as depression or insomnia. There are cases, however, where a teen with ODD needs help beyond what his parents can provide in order to get his life back on track.

 

What is the Next Step for My Teen with Oppositional Defiant Disorder?

 

If you have determined that your teen with Oppositional Defiant Disorder could benefit from outside intervention, you must then select a facility that will address his unique challenges. Liahona Academy specializes in helping teen boys with ODD learn the skills they need in order to deal with daily challenges and communicate in an effective way. The intensive therapeutic environment at Liahona Academy allows struggling teens to receive full time care in order to rebuild important relationships and become successful adults.

 

For a free consultation, contact us at Liahona Academy 1-800-675-8101.