What Are the Treatments for Oppositional Defiant Disorder?

According to the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (AACAP), "in children with Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD), there is an ongoing pattern of uncooperative, defiant, and hostile behavior toward authority figures that seriously interferes with the youngster's day to day functioning." This disorder can cause extreme stress in a home environment, and parents should know that treatment involves support for both them and their child.

Parent Training

• Parent training is conducted to teach parents how to respond productively to their child with ODD. Techniques for appropriate redirection, distraction and discipline are emphasized.

Individual Psychotherapy

• This treatment is focused on helping the child learn how to appropriately cope with the anger and frustration he feels as a result of ODD.

Family Psychotherapy

• Family counseling is directed at increasing the communication and empathy between the child with ODD and the members of her family.

Cognitive Therapies

• According to the AACAP, cognitive therapies "assist with problem solving and decrease negativity," giving the affected child the tools he needs to control his reactions and emotions.

Social-Skills Training

• This type of training is critical to helping a child with ODD function in society. Without this resource, she may have a difficult time building and maintaining relationships and, eventually, staying employed.