Bi-Polar Oppositional Behavior Disorder

Bipolar and oppositional defiant disorder (ODD) are two different mental illnesses. From some suffers' points of view, however, the experiences may feel the same. In some instances, a person with oppositional defiant disorder may later be diagnosed as bipolar.

Oppositional Defiant Disorder

• Oppositional defiant disorder characterizes an unusually high level of conflict between a child and people who are important in her life, such as parents, teachers and other family members. The behavior and associated moods do not necessarily correlate to mood problems from someone who is bipolar.

Statistics for ODD Leading to Bipolar

• Statistically, about 20% of children who are diagnosed with ODD are also diagnosed with bipolar disorder. Additionally, 45% of children who are diagnosed with both ODD and conduct disorder are also diagnosed with bipolar disorder.

ODD and Bipolar in Youth

• Although researchers indicate that nearly 250,000 youth are affected by bipolar disorders, it is often difficult to diagnose. Symptoms of bipolar can easily be mixed or confused with other childhood specific mental disorders, such as oppositional defiant disorder or ADHD.

Early Prevention for ODD

• Consistency with rules and fairness of consequences can help prevent the onset of oppositional defiant disorder. If punishments are too harsh or inconsistent, then teenagers may react negatively to mixed messages.

Solutions for ODD

• Seeking professional help is best. Mainstream therapy or psychotherapy models sometimes do not work with teens. There are, however, other non-traditional therapies which you can discuss with a mental health professional to find the best fit for your teen.