Understanding Disruptive Behavior Disorders: ODD and CD
Some kids and teens struggle with disruptive behavior disorders, which can make life difficult for them and the people around them. Two of the most common of these disorders are Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) and Conduct Disorder (CD). Both involve patterns of behavior that are disruptive and defiant. However, they are distinct disorders.
It’s important to be able to tell the difference between ODD and CD because an accurate diagnosis is key to making sure people get the right kind of support and treatment.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the differences, similarities, causes, and treatments for ODD and CD.
What is Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD)?
Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) is a condition marked by a consistent pattern of anger, irritability, argumentativeness, defiance, and vindictiveness. To be diagnosed with ODD, a child has to show these behaviors for at least six months.
Signs and symptoms of ODD include:
- Frequent temper tantrums
- Arguing with adults
- Refusing to follow rules or requests
- Intentionally annoying others
- Blaming others for their mistakes
- Becoming easily annoyed
- Acting angry and resentful
- Being spiteful
ODD usually appears around age 8, though onset can vary. Studies suggest that between 1 and 16 percent of children may have ODD.
What is Conduct Disorder?
Conduct Disorder (CD) means a child repeatedly and persistently violates the rights of others or refuses to follow major rules. It’s important to note that this is more than just the occasional rule-breaking that’s common in kids. To be diagnosed with CD, a child must display several specific behaviors over a sustained period.
Examples of these behaviors include:
- Aggression towards people and animals: This can include bullying, getting into fights, and acts of cruelty.
- Destruction of property: Vandalism and arson fall into this category.
- Deceitfulness or theft: Lying and stealing are indicators.
- Serious violations of rules: Running away from home and skipping school are examples.
CD usually starts in the preteen or early teen years – often between ages 10 and 12 for boys, and 14 and 16 for girls. It affects an estimated 3 to 6 percent of children.
Key differences between ODD and CD
While ODD and CD may look similar on the surface, there are key differences in the nature and severity of the behaviors, the intent behind them, and the potential consequences for the child or teen.
Severity and nature of behaviors
With ODD, the behaviors are mainly defiance and noncompliance, and they’re usually directed at people in positions of authority. These behaviors tend to be reactive rather than planned.
CD involves much more serious behaviors, including aggression, destruction of property, and violation of the rights of other people. These behaviors are often goal-driven rather than reactive.
Intent and empathy
Kids with ODD may push back against authority, but they’re not inherently aggressive. While they may not be especially empathetic, a lack of empathy isn’t a defining characteristic of ODD.
Kids and teens with CD often lack empathy, remorse, and guilt. They may intentionally try to hurt other people or animals.
Potential consequences
Because CD involves more severe actions, kids with CD are more likely to face legal consequences.
With ODD, the main consequence is usually difficulty with authority figures at home and at school.
What do ODD and CD have in common?
ODD and CD share some characteristics. For example:
- Both are considered “disruptive behavior disorders,” meaning that they cause problems with a person’s ability to follow rules or get along with other people.
- Both involve ongoing patterns of behavior that interfere with daily life.
- Both can occur alongside other conditions, like ADHD, anxiety, and mood disorders. This can make diagnosis and treatment more complicated.
- Both are more frequently diagnosed in males than in females.
What causes ODD and CD?
Researchers haven’t pinned down one single cause for either ODD or CD. But they have identified several risk factors:
Genetic Factors
It’s possible that some people are genetically predisposed to developing these disorders.
Environmental Factors
A child’s environment seems to have a significant impact. Inconsistent parenting, overly harsh discipline, and exposure to violence can all contribute to the development of ODD and CD. Low socioeconomic status and family instability may also play a role, as can traumatic experiences.
Neurobiological Factors
Differences in brain structure and function might make some children more vulnerable.
Temperament
Children who have difficulty regulating their emotions, or who are naturally more difficult, may be at greater risk.
Treatment Approaches for ODD and CD
While there can be overlap in treatment strategies for ODD and CD, conduct disorder generally requires more intensive intervention.
ODD Treatment
- Parent Management Training (PMT): Teaching parents how to manage defiant behaviors is a cornerstone of ODD treatment. PMT equips parents with tools and techniques to encourage positive behaviors and discourage negative ones.
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT helps children develop coping mechanisms, regulate their emotions, and improve their problem-solving skills.
- Family therapy: Improving communication patterns and resolving conflicts within the family can create a more supportive environment for the child.
CD Treatment
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT helps address distorted thinking and improve behavior.
- Multisystemic Therapy (MST): MST looks at the various factors that contribute to the disorder, and is often administered in the patient’s home and community.
- Residential treatment: In more severe cases, a residential treatment program may be necessary to provide a structured and supportive environment.
The Importance of Early Intervention
Identifying and treating these conditions early can improve long-term results. Early intervention can also prevent ODD from progressing to CD.
Summary
Oppositional defiant disorder (ODD) and conduct disorder (CD) are both disruptive behavior disorders that affect children and adolescents. ODD is marked by a pattern of angry, defiant, and argumentative behavior, while CD involves more serious violations of rules and the rights of others. ODD is more common than CD, and it often appears earlier in a child’s life.
If you think your child is showing signs of ODD or CD, early diagnosis and intervention are essential. It’s important to seek professional help from a qualified mental health professional. Both disorders are treatable with the right support and interventions, such as therapy, parent training, and, in some cases, medication.
With appropriate treatment and support, children with ODD and CD can learn to manage their behavior and achieve positive outcomes in school, at home, and in their relationships.