personal thoughts on ODD?

Question

I'm wondering if any parents have some personal insight into something called oppositional defiance disorder?
My little boy has text-book ADHD; has been doing really well on meds (we actually cut his dose in 1/2 over the last couple years).
But the last few months, he has become almost completely unmanageable. I thought maybe it was d/t the fact that my ex (with whom I had maintained a good friendship!!) moved to Texas & barely contacts the kid.
His behavior isn't like the ADHD stuff---it's so completely different than his 'normal' personality (which has always been sweet & kindhearted).
Anyway, long story short, a friend gave me some info on this ODD, & it really seems to describe his behavior.
I'm not anxious to categorize him or throw yet another label on him, but it really seems to make sense.
I can look up facts & such on-line; but if any parents could give some more personal input, etc. I'd appreciate it.

Answer 1

I have a child who went through an extended period of ODD like behavior. The textbooks at the time said it HAD to be 24/7, so I had a young intern tell me basically I suck as a parent. Turns out, it can be selective, and still ODD.

I think you are smart to hesitate to jump on another label or med, but I feel your pain that you must do something. Oh my god, the stress--it will hollow you out.

Have you looked at the Feingold Diet? The extreme version is for seizures, but the basics make sense for other issues. It does away with processed sugars, colors and additives. Studies are starting to show that there may be some links between the artificial colors and flavorings and behavior and overall brain function.

Might be worth considering as something to try.

You so have my sympathy--unless you have dealt with a child who is ODD (or acting ODD), you can't explain how difficult and upsetting it is.

God Bless you and your child.

Answer 2

Children do not defy their parents because of disorders or chemical imbalances. Obedience cannot be obtained through medication.

Your child might truly be acting out because of deep hurt and resentment, and that is understandable but it still must be controlled by you. He needs as much normalcy and love as you can provide in his life, something to fill the void of losing a parent (they say divorce is harder on a kid than death).

Do you work and let others care for your child? This might also be aggravating the situation since he already has one parent "deserting" him. Even a sweet and kindhearted kid can finally snap when the adults in his life let him down one too many times.

You're right to be cautious about labels. Your boy doesn't need another disorder tacked on, nor does he need medication. He just needs love, consistent discipline and a parent that will be there for him during the day and night.

Answer 3

Well, I do not have a child with ODD, but I am a speech therapist in a school for children with special needs and many of them are diagnosed with ODD. It generally begins some time between around 7-12 years of age and is more prevalent in children with ADHD. There are many theories relating to the causes, from trauma to disruption in the home, etc. but I have never seen a steady reason in many of the children I work with. Their behaviors range from significant resistance to rules, especially those given by authority figures (parents, teachers, police), all the way to destruction of property, fighting, lying, bullying and anger. The majority of my students did not receive this diagnosis until the behaviors notably impacted areas such as academic/school or social behaviors and interactions. This can be quite a serious conduct disorder, so I would definitely bring your concerns to the neurologist or developmental pediatrician who prescribes the ADHD medication. Good luck!!!

Answer 4

How old? I'd really resist the urge to label him further, especially since he's going through a loss right now. You should follow up with dr. that diagnosed and is treating the ADD if that is a good relationship for you, or get a referral for some family counseling. Boys are really tough at certain ages (11 was the hardest for me but 4 ran a close 2nd), being ADD is also really tough. It sounds like you are crazy about him, make sure you have plenty of support!

Answer 5

Talk to your doctor.

So many factors could be involved in his "ODD". He could be reacting to the medications, and need the dosage/type changed. He could be lashing out due to anger because he has a parent that has "abandoned" him. So many other things could be going on. So the first thing would be speak to his Dr.

If your son does in fact have ODD, the doctor will be able to give you some options to help both you and your son deal with this new issue. It may or may not be medications, but simple counceling or maybe get you in contact with a support group. You could also get more information on the issue. But speak to your son's doctor as soon as possible to help your son. He might be just as confused about these new feelings as you are.

Answer 6

My personal input is that Americans over medicate their children. People make up these disorders and give medication to children who just have a learning style that doesn't suit the teacher. Sure some kids probably need the meds, but not all.

Answer 7

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Answer 8

He may be overmedicated, or might need some kind of mood stabilizer to take along with his medication. If he is on stimulants and has been taking them for an extended period of time, or if they are interfering with his sleep, they may be making him more aggressive.

I took medications at one time for ADD (Ritalin) and although it helped my symptoms, I foundthat I had to be careful not to take too much because I did tend to feel more aggressive.

Also, depression in children can many times masquerade as irritability, anger, and aggression. If your child has gone through a big loss and it coincided with his behavior change, that might be your culprit.

Answer 9

Your kid is pissed off that his father left, and he is not mature enough to pinpoint his emotions for you or put it into words, he just act's out. He may be grieving, he may be mad at you and blame you for dad leaving even though it may not be your fault. I would take him to see a woman psychologist, and don't go in the room with him. Let him have some time with a person who can help him.