Caring for a child with an oppositional defiant disorder (ODD) diagnosis

Oppositional defiant disorder (ODD) is a term used by health professionals to describe a child who often shows behaviours such as anger, irritability and defiance, including refusing to follow rules. These behaviours can be very intense and are often directed at parents and teachers. They can affect your child's development and cause distress for your child and the people around them.

All children sometimes refuse instructions or get grumpy. For a child with ODD, these responses happen more often and more intensely. Knowing the facts and where to get help can make it easier to care for your child.

ODD is not about 'bad behaviour'. It can sometimes be intense enough that your child finds everyday activities and relationships more challenging.

A child with a diagnosis of ODD may show patterns of behaviour such as:

• having intense emotional reactions
• arguing with adults more often than most children
• finding it hard to cope with rules or requests
• seeking attention in ways that can be challenging for others
• finding it difficult to take responsibility when upset

A child with ODD often behaves in a way that is argumentative or angry.

Scientists do not know exactly what causes ODD. It tends to run in families, so genetics might be involved. Environmental factors, such as stress, may also have an impact.

Signs of ODD usually start between early childhood and adolescence, but they can start earlier.

Some children with ODD also show neurodivergent traits, such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

Children with ODD may also experience anxiety disorders or depression, and some may be autistic.

Ask your GP for advice if you think your child might show signs of ODD.

They might refer you to a:

• developmental paediatrician (a doctor who specialises in children's development and behaviour)
• child psychiatrist or psychologist (health professionals trained in mental health assessment and supports)

These specialists are experts in assessing and supporting children with ODD.

Having a child with ODD can have a big impact on you, your other children and the rest of your family. If your child has a diagnosis of ODD, health professionals can work with you to develop a behaviour support plan to help manage daily challenges.

Therapy with a psychologist, developmental paediatrician or psychiatrist can help support a child with a diagnosis of ODD. They will talk with your child about their behaviour and may help you build strategies to strengthen your relationship with your child.

Seeking help early is important so that you can access therapy tailored to your child. Ask your healthcare provider if a referral for therapy can help your child with their relationships, schooling and general mood.

Early support may stop conduct disorder from developing, which involves more serious and ongoing behaviour patterns.

Occasionally, your child's doctor may recommend medicines to support co-occurring conditions.

It is important that your child feels safe, supported and understood. You can also use practical strategies to help guide behaviour and build a positive connection with your child. You could try:

• using praise to encourage positive behaviour
• creating a reward chart
• giving clear instructions
• setting clear boundaries to support health and safety
• problem solving with your child

Your child's therapist can work with you to develop other ways to support your child's strengths and guide behaviour, such as a behaviour plan.

A positive parenting program may help.

You may be eligible for financial support through the National Disability Insurance Scheme (Opens in new tab) (NDIS). Eligibility is based on your child's support needs, not just a diagnosis.

You can apply to the NDIS if your child has developmental differences or support needs. Your child may be able to access services with NDIS funding before getting a formal diagnosis.

Contact Services Australia (Centrelink) to ask about financial help, including payments for carers (Opens in new tab).

Remember to look after yourself so that you can continue to care for your child:

• For advice or emotional support, call Pregnancy, Birth and Baby on 1800 882 436 to speak to a maternal child health nurse. Available from 7am to midnight (AET), 7 days a week.
• For more information on support and help for carers (Opens in new tab), visit the Carer Gateway website.
• Some children with ODD may be eligible for National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) funding.

Emerging Minds has resources available for parents and carers of children with ODD.

Languages other than English

Carer Gateway has information available in many community languages on support for unpaid carers (Opens in new tab).

Information for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples

Welcoming Our Little Ones (Opens in new tab) is a resource on raising strong Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander children.

Find an Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (ACCHO) or Affiliate (Opens in new tab) near you.

Yarning SafeNStrong (Opens in new tab) is a free counselling service for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples, supporting people, friends and families with wellbeing.