Anger in Children

Oppositional Defiant Disorder: is that a fancy name for the terrible twos? Or does it instead refer to the age when teenagers defy their parents about almost anything on a daily basis?

Oppositional Defiant Disorder affects approximately 16 percent of children and teens. Although that may not seem like a large percentage of children, for those it affects, it has an extremely adverse impact on the parent-child relationship.

Dr. Lisa Whiteaker from Cookeville, TN, explains that ODD can be distinguished from regular defiant behavior by the fact that it lasts longer than six months and involves an excessive defiance of authority. This behavior is hostile, annoying, excessively argumentative, and it interferes with all relationships in which an authority, such as a parent, teacher, or peer is involved. The symptoms range from hurtful speech to outbursts of anger and resentment. Seeing a child behave this way can be frightening and embarrassing for the parent or authority as they seek to get the child under control.

Dr. Whiteaker asserts that ODD is caused by a combination of biological abnormalities in the chemistry of the brain. Professional testing is necessary in order to diagnose properly whether the child has ODD. In some cases, a family history of mental illness or a diagnosis of other issues, such as ADHD or anxiety, or a learning disability, such as dyslexia, can exacerbate ODD.

What can be done to help the child and their family? Some cases of ODD are so extreme that the child may need medication. In other cases, counseling proves an effective tool, especially when it employs problem-solving skills, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and psychotherapy. Parents can often be taught techniques to help alter and defuse a difficult situation.

The Mayo Clinic lists the criteria for a diagnosis of ODD:

• Includes at least four symptoms from any of these categories: angry and irritable mood, argumentative and defiant behavior, or vindictiveness
• Occurs with at least one individual who is not a sibling
• Causes significant problems at work, school, or home
• Occurs on its own, rather than as part of the course of another mental health problem, such as a substance use disorder, depression, or bipolar disorder
• Lasts at least six months

DSM-5 criteria for the diagnosis of ODD include both emotional and behavioral symptoms.

Angry and Irritable Mood:

• Often loses temper
• Is often touchy or easily annoyed by others
• Is often angry and resentful

Argumentative and Defiant Behavior:

• Often argues with adults or people in authority
• Often actively defies or refuses to comply with adults’ requests or rules
• Often deliberately annoys people
• Often blames others for his or her mistakes or misbehavior

Vindictiveness:

• Is often spiteful or vindictive
• Has shown spiteful or vindictive behavior at least twice in the past six months

It is important for the parent to recognize the symptoms of ODD early and to start age-appropriate treatment. ODD can lead to poor school and work performance, impulse control problems, substance use, and suicide.

As in all situations, we need to pray to the Lord for guidance. James 1:5 says, “But if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all generously and without reproach, and it will be given to hi