Being a teenager can be remarkably challenging, parenting a teenager can be even more difficult. Though you were of course once a teenager yourself, every generation faces its own unique challenges. You may find that despite how you try to interact with your teen all you are hearing is no. This can leave you wondering if your child will ever just say “YES” happily and be more cooperative. While this type of behavior can be characteristic of many teenagers, it can be complicated when symptoms of Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) are added to the mix. Counseling can help.

When Old Techniques Don’t Work

No two children are the same, whether your child is your first or your tenth, they will all react differently to parenting interventions. If your parenting style worked well with your other children, you may be feeling at a loss. This can be particularly true if your child is experiencing symptoms of a behavioral disorder.

Adolescence can indeed be a difficult time for you and your teen. If they have ODD, however, it could be the principal reason for their defiance and/or disobedience. Teens that are defiant and oppositional because of ODD are unique. Your usual parenting style may not work for them. Without knowing that ODD is impacting your teen’s behavior, you can be left feeling so exasperated that you don’t know what to do next. Consulting with a therapist well versed in ODD can help.

What are Symptoms of ODD?

Up to 15 percent of American children meet the criteria for ODD, making it a rather prevalent emotional condition among the young people. Despite its prevalence, it should be noted that many of these young people aren’t getting proper treatment. One of the leading reasons is the difficulty associated with recognizing symptoms.

Defiance alone isn’t a measure of ODD. ODD has behavioral and psychosocial symptoms. Behavioral symptoms may include disobedience, rebuffing adult requests, defying rules, intentionally annoying people, blaming others, irritability, vile speech when angry, revenge-seeking behaviors, moodiness, angry outbursts, getting involved with frequent arguments, and questioning rules. The glaring psychosocial symptoms of ODD are: “low self-esteem, social impairment, trouble maintaining friendships, anger, resentment, spiteful attitude, and negativity.”

Consequences of ODD

When a child has ODD, life can be challenging for everyone around them, including you and the family. They can push you to your limits and cause distress in your other children’s lives. Individuals with ODD often get involved in activities that are dangerous and unhealthy. They may have academic difficulties and not finish high school. They may engage in fighting or abuse substances. They may even start breaking laws. ODD can also occur along with other emotional conditions such as depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, and self-harm.

Your child could be more prone to ODD with the following risk factors: developmental delays, family conflicts, parental divorce, and financial difficulties.

Providing the Help at the Critical Time

If your child is showing symptoms of ODD to the extent that it is seriously affecting their behavior, health and relationships, know that help is available. ODD symptoms can be powerful, but you are not powerless.

Professional counseling can make a world of difference. Schedule with a trained therapist independently contracted with Carolina Counseling Services – Pinehurst, NC. They can help evaluate your teen’s symptoms and create a treatment plan unique to their needs. Call today to schedule your first appointment!

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