Oppositional defiant disorder and conduct problems
ज़िद, गुस्सा और व्यवहार की समस्या (ODD)
ODD involves a persistent pattern of angry, argumentative and defiant behaviour. Conduct disorder is more serious, involving aggression, rule-breaking or harm to others.
Early help prevents school failure, substance use and legal problems later.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Kuldeep Budania, MBBS, MD Psychiatry
Common symptoms
- Frequent temper tantrums and irritability
- Arguing with adults, refusing rules
- Deliberately annoying others, blaming others
- Lying, stealing, running away, bunking school
- Fighting, bullying, cruelty to animals (conduct disorder)
Causes
- ADHD, learning difficulties or language delay
- Inconsistent or very harsh discipline
- Family conflict, violence or substance use at home
- Peer influence, excess screen time
Risk factors
- Harsh or inconsistent discipline; conflict between parents
- ADHD and learning difficulties
- Exposure to violence or peers involved in substance use
How it is diagnosed
- Pattern of anger, arguing and defiance (ODD), or rule-breaking, aggression and stealing (conduct disorder) for at least six months
- Checking for ADHD, depression, learning disorder and substance use
Classification: ICD-10 F91.3, F91 · ICD-11 6C90, 6C91Oppositional defiant disorder / conduct-dissocial disorder.
Treatment options
- 1Parent management training — clear rules, praise, consistent consequences
- 2Child therapy for anger control and problem-solving
- 3Treating ADHD, learning or mood problems
- 4Working with the school
- 5Medicines only for specific associated conditions
Psychotherapy and counselling
- Parent management training — the most effective treatment
- Anger-management and problem-solving skills for the child
Guidance for family
- Stay calm, give clear choices and follow through consistently
- Avoid physical punishment — it increases aggression
When to see a psychiatrist
- Behaviour problems at home and school for months
- Aggression, stealing or substance use
- Parents feel they have lost control
Thoughts of self-harm or a medical emergency? Call Tele-MANAS 14416 (24×7, free) or 112.
Frequently asked questions
Is my child just badly behaved?
Persistent patterns often have underlying causes like ADHD or stress. Labelling doesn't help; a plan does.
Does beating help?
No. Harsh punishment usually increases aggression. Consistent, calm consequences work better.
Do both parents need to attend?
Ideally yes — consistency between caregivers is key.
Help is available — confidential, in Hindi or English.
Private video consultation from anywhere in India with an Ajmer-based psychiatrist. Psychiatry consultation ₹500.
This page is for education and does not replace a personal consultation. Do not start or stop any medicine without a doctor's advice.