What actually is Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD)?

What actually is Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD)?

Actively hostile, persistently challenging behaviour.

If you’ve ever had a student with ODD in your classroom, you’ll certainly know what it looks (and sounds) like.

But what does ODD actually mean? And what is the best way of managing students who have ODD and present challenging behaviour in the classroom?

In short, oppositional behaviour is a pattern of disruptive, defiant behaviour that is directed towards authority figures (including parents and teachers). The key difference here is that students with ODD actively seek conflict with those around them.

Their behaviours can include continually refusing to following adult instructions (however small), constantly questioning rules and routines, and deliberately annoying or upsetting those around them.

Behaviours can also become more hostile, leading to verbal and physical aggression, anger outbursts and tantrums.

(By the way, if you’re dealing with these issues in class, you might find this article on what to do when a student argues back useful).

In this brilliant infographic, Liahona Academy have assembled all the key facts you need to know about understanding and managing Oppositional Defiant Disorder.

Check out the full infographic below.

ODD infographic

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