Is it ODD in Adolescence or a Teen Defiance Phase?
It is often difficult to tell if your teen is suffering from ODD in Adolescence or simply going through a phase because adolescence is a period in which teens display demanding, hostile and argumentative behavior. Symptoms of ODD in Adolescence include a)frequent temper tantrums b)arguments with adults c)refusal to listen to adults or persons in authority d)vindictiveness and active seeking or revenge e)brooding resentment f)deliberate acts of provocation g)negative and hostile attitude towards others, with or without provocation h)blaming others for his or her own behavior. Sounds like your teen? Don't jump to conclusions yet! Because conflicts between teenagers and adults are normal, consideration of a diagnosis is usually made on the basis of frequency and severity. How often does the teen become hostile and provocative? Does he or she have academic and behavior problems at school? Has he or she had run ins with the law? Has your teen broken the law? How often? There is a big difference between a one-time run in with the law and a history of criminal offenses. Many teenagers have breached the law in one form or another at one time. Most learn from the experience. Repeated behavior problems and offenses in school and in the public arena are good indications of the presence of ODD in Adolescence. What Are the Risk Factors For ODD in Adolescence? a) Family conflict and instability can create an environment which exacerbates teen defiance. A history of harsh punitive action, family violence, child abuse, dysfunctional parenting, divorce and economic problems creates the arena for angry and oppositional behavior. b) A family history of defiant and hostile behavior in parents or older sibling is a risk factor as well. Behaviors are not only passed on genetically,they are often learned and absorbed in childhood. c) Loss of self-esteem and confidence because of academic failure in elementary school is also a contributing factor. In fact,any form of peer rejection or peer hostility can become a breeding ground for defiance. d) Association with friends who use alcohol and drugs, participate in violence and delinquent behavior is another risk factor. What Happens to Teens with ODD? Watch this Video!
What Treatment Strategies Are Available to Adolescents with ODD? Engage the help of professionals who can provide one or more of the following: b)Family Counseling c)Behavior Modification Therapy. d)Sometimes medication is called for in order to help the adolescent become compliant enough to follow counseling and therapy sessions. e)A consistent program of exercise also helps. Exercise has been shown to elevate mood and a sense of well-being. Maintaining a program of exercise routines also builds self-esteem. As well, exercise has been shown to enhance the executive functions of the brain which can control the adolescent's susceptibility to emotions and addiction. ODD in Adolescence is not the end of the world. It can lead to a serious examination of family dynamics and parental responsibilities that can lead to positive changes in both the adolescent and adults involved. Recent studies show that involving teens in something as simple as daily family dinner can do much to change their delinquent tendencies and behavior. Even children with a genetic disposition to violence can be moderated by a positive social environment. For information on the differences between ODD in Adolescence and a more serious form of behavior disorder,visit Conduct Disorder. You've done everything you can to turn him around. Nothing seems to work. You wonder if perhaps nothing will ever work. Wouldn't it be great if you could just Ask James: “Will My Kid Be Messed Up Forever?” Disclaimer:The above information is meant only to inform and should never displace professional consultation.
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