What are oppositional defiant disorder symptoms?

Symptoms of ODD generally fall into three main categories:

1. Angry/Irritable Mood – frequent temper outbursts, touchiness, or resentment.
2. Argumentative/Defiant Behaviour – regularly arguing with adults, refusing to follow rules, deliberately disobeying requests.
3. Vindictiveness – spiteful or revenge-seeking behaviours, often recurring over several months.

These symptoms must occur consistently over time (at least 6 months) and be more severe than what’s expected for a child’s age or developmental level. With the right behavioural support, children can learn positive coping and regulation strategies.

To get started with tailored support, book a consultation with us.