Causes and risk factors
Exact cause of Oppositional Defiant Disorder is not known. Child’s natural disposition, delay in the process of cognition in development of a child, lack of supervision, relationship with parents , strict discipline, abuse or neglect by parents, sibling rivalry may cause the disorder. Family history of ADHD or Oppositional Defiant Disorder , parents with troubled marriages, financial problems, instability in the family such as frequent shifting of houses, schools leads to Oppositional Defiant Disorder .A neurotransmitter serotonin is found to be responsible for development of the disorder.
Clinical presentation
Negativity, disobedience, hostility directed toward elders, temper tantrums, argument with elders refusing to obey, irritating and annoying others, blaming others for his own misbehaviour, acting aggressively towards friends, difficulty in maintaining friendships, academic problems are the presenting features. Being angry, resentful, spiteful, vindictive contribute to Oppositional Defiant Disorder. Stubbornness, unwilling to compromise, ignoring and disrespecting elders are some manifestations of the disorder. Frequent occurrence of at least four of the above mentioned behaviour will confirm Oppositional Defiant Disorder.
Investigation
Medical history by the patient and psychological evaluation by the psychiatrist or psychotherapist helps in diagnosis. Any 4 of above mentioned behaviour qualifies the patient to be labelled for Oppositional Defiant Disorder.
Treatment
No Medical treatment is needed. Drugs may be used to treat other mental illnesses that may be present such as ADHD. Main treatment consists of Psychotherapy and counselling which involves cognitive behavioural therapy that teaches anger management techniques, relaxation techniques to combat the problem. Individual and family therapy, parent child interaction techniques, parent training, social involvement, spending quality time with your children will also help in managing Oppositional Defiant Disorder.
Other Modes of treatment
The other modes of treatment can also be effective in treating Oppositional Defiant Disorder.
Homoeopathy is a science which deals with individualization considers a person in a holistic way. This science can be helpful in combating the symptoms. Similarly the ayurvedic system of medicine which uses herbal medicines and synthetic derivates are also found to be effective in treating Oppositional Defiant Disorder.
