children s health issues
Oppositional Defiant Disorder
Diagnosis of Oppositional Defiant Disorder
A visit with a doctor or behavioral health specialist Description of child's behavior (such as by a parent or teacher) Doctors diagnose oppositional defiant disorder based on the child's symptoms and behavior, which must have been present for at least 6 months and be serious enough to interfere with the child's ability to function. When oppositional defiant disorder is suspected, doctors carefully evaluate all children for signs of depression, such as sleep or appetite disturbances, as well as anxiety. In children, Symptoms and Doctors must also distinguish oppositional defiant disorder from untreated Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) (ADHD), which can also cause similar symptoms. These symptoms often lessen when ADHD is adequately treated. 