SA 202

2.  Developmental theory. This theory suggests that the problems start when children
are toddlers. Children and teens with ODD may have had trouble learning to
become independent from a parent or other main person to whom they were
emotionally attached. Their behavior may be normal developmental issues that
are lasting beyond the toddler years.
 Learning theory. This theory suggests that the negative symptoms of ODD are
learned attitudes. They mirror the effects of negative reinforcement methods used
by parents and others in power. The use of negative reinforcement increases the
child’s ODD behaviors. That’s because these behaviors allow the child to get what
he or she wants: attention and reaction from parents or others.

3.  ODD is more common in boys than in girls. Children with these mental health
problems are also more likely to have ODD:
 Mood or anxiety disorders
 Conduct disorder
 Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)

4.  Symptoms of ODD may include:
 Having frequent temper tantrums
 Arguing a lot with adults
 Refusing to do what an adult asks
 Always questioning rules and refusing to follow rules
 Doing things to annoy or upset others, including adults
 Blaming others for the child’s own misbehaviors or mistakes
 Being easily annoyed by others
 Often having an angry attitude
 Speaking harshly or unkindly
 Seeking revenge or being vindictive

5.  Children with ODD may need to try different therapists and types of therapies
before they find what works for them. Treatment may include:
 Cognitive-behavioral therapy. A child learns to better solve problems and
communicate. He or she also learns how to control impulses and anger.
 Family therapy. This therapy helps make changes in the family. It improves
communication skills and family interactions. Having a child with ODD can be
very hard for parents. It can also cause problems for siblings. Parents and siblings
need support and understanding.
 Peer group therapy. A child learns better social skills.
 Medicines. These are not often used to treat ODD. But a child may need them for
other symptoms or disorders, such as ADHD or anxiety disorders.

6.  Often makes careless mistakes and lacks attention to details
Example: overlooking or missing details or handing in homework that is
inaccurate
 Often has difficulty paying attention to tasks or while playing
Example: difficulty remaining focused during class, conversations, or lengthy
readings
 Often avoids, dislikes, or is reluctant to participate in tasks requiring sustained
mental effort
Example: avoids or dislikes schoolwork or homework
 Often easily distracted
 Often forgetful in daily activities
Example: may forget to complete chores

7.  Researchers at the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), National
Institutes of Health (NIH), and across the country are studying the causes of
ADHD. Current research suggests ADHD may be caused by interactions between
genes and environmental or non-genetic factors. Like many other illnesses, a
number of factors may contribute to ADHD such as:
 Genes
 Cigarette smoking, alcohol use, or drug use during pregnancy
 Exposure to environmental toxins, such as high levels of lead, at a young age
 Low birth weight
 Brain injuries

8.  Intermittent explosive disorder involves repeated, sudden episodes of impulsive,
aggressive, violent behavior or angry verbal outbursts in which you react grossly
out of proportion to the situation. Road rage, domestic abuse, throwing or
breaking objects, or other temper tantrums may be signs of intermittent explosive
disorder.
 These intermittent, explosive outbursts cause you significant distress, negatively
impact your relationships, work and school, and they can have legal and financial
consequences.
 Intermittent explosive disorder is a chronic disorder that can continue for years,
although the severity of outbursts may decrease with age. Treatment involves
medications and psychotherapy to help you control your aggressive impulses.

9.  Aggressive episodes may be preceded or accompanied by:
 Rage
 Irritability
 Increased energy
 Racing thoughts
 Tingling
 Tremors
 Palpitations
 Chest tightness

10.  The explosive verbal and behavioral outbursts are out of proportion to the
situation, with no thought to consequences, and can include:
 Temper tantrums
 Tirades
 Heated arguments
 Shouting
 Slapping, shoving or pushing
 Physical fights
 Property damage
 Threatening or assaulting people or animals

11.  History of physical abuse. People who were abused as children or experienced
multiple traumatic events have an increased risk of intermittent explosive
disorder.
 History of other mental health disorders. People who have antisocial personality
disorder, borderline personality disorder or other disorders that include disruptive
behaviors, such as attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), have an
increased risk of also having intermittent explosive disorder.