Oppositional defiant disorder

Oppositional defiant disorder (ODD) is a disruptive behaviour disorder involving an ongoing pattern of angry/irritable mood, argumentative/defiant behaviour and vindictiveness. Onset is typically before 8 years of age, although ODD can be diagnosed in both children and adults. This disorder is associated with substantial social and economic burden, and childhood ODD is one of the most common precursors of other mental health problems that can arise across the lifespan. The population prevalence of ODD is similar to 3 to 5%. A higher prevalence in males than females has been reported, particularly before adolescence. No single risk factor accounts for ODD. The development of this disorder seems to arise from the interaction of genetic and environmental factors, and mechanisms embedded in social relationships are understood to contribute to its maintenance. The treatment of ODD is often successful, and relatively brief parenting interventions produce large sized treatment effects in early childhood. Accordingly, ODD represents an important focus for research, practice and policy concerning early intervention and prevention in mental health. This Primer by Hawes and colleagues summarizes the epidemiology, pathophysiology, diagnosis and treatment of oppositional defiant disorder (ODD), a disruptive behaviour disorder that typically occurs in childhood. This Primer also discusses the effects of ODD across the lifespan and provides an overview of future research directions.

Automated summary

Oppositional defiant disorder (ODD) is a disruptive behavior disorder characterized by ongoing angry/irritable mood, argumentative/defiant behavior, and vindictiveness. It typically arises before the age of 8 and can be diagnosed in both children and adults. ODD is associated with significant social and economic burden, and is a common precursor to other mental health problems. The treatment of ODD is often successful, particularly with early parenting interventions.