An Introduction to Oppositional Defiant Disorder and Conduct Disorder

Disruptive behavior disorders a re psychiatric conditions that involve significant behavior impairment. Oppositional defiant disorder (ODD) and conduct disorder (CD) are among the most common disruptive behavior disorders in children and adolescents. Children with ODD and CD have difficulty maintaining appropriate behavioral relationships with peers, family, and authority figures, and they commonly display aggression and anger Accurate diagnosis is important because other conditions have symptoms that can mimic these disorders. Psychosocial therapy for ODD and CD is crucial; no medications have been FDA approved for these conditions, although stimulants, nonstimulants, anti psychotics, mood stabilizers, and antidepressants have been used off-label. If not managed promptly, ODD can progress to CD, which could then transition to antisocial personality disorder.