Oppositional Defiant Treatment

Oppositional Defiant Disorder Treatment is most often a combination of behavior therapy for the child, family therapy with the parents, siblings and the problem child, and additional parental training for the adults. Another available treatment sometimes included is the often controversial prescribing of Retinlin. Retinlin is most commonly prescribed for children with Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) which is sometimes intertwined with Oppositional Defiant Disorder.

The idea of the behavior therapy is to reduce the frequency and severity of the problem behaviors. The worst behavior patterns would be stressed and tackled first. Often being a behavior that can hurt the child or others, or cause damage around him, it’s a good idea to start with the most disruptive, destructive behavior.

Good acceptable behavior is rewarded, thus a positive outcome results from appropriate behavior. The general train of thought is that this will encourage the good behavior and eventually eliminate the bad behavior entirely.

Often times, the therapist wants to work alone with the child in the beginning. The therapist may want to work with the parents and other family members alone without the problem child in the beginning. Family group sessions which include the child with the behavior problem will be added to the therapy program. It is imperative that the family and parents have time alone with the therapist so they may learn how the therapy will work and play a part in the training at home away from the professional setting.

Parents often need to correct some of their own behavior. This does not mean they are bad parents; often their behavior or reaction to the child’s behavior is not the correct reaction, regardless of the best of intentions. I may actually be encouraging the difficult defiant disorder.

Sometimes small changes in the parent’s actions and reactions to the child or even making time for one on one time with the child can make a huge difference. Older siblings can also learn b behavior that will help to train their difficult and disruptive sibling.

Being as a difficult child is a problem for the entire family, having the entire family involved in the treatment program is rewarding for all. The common goal is to have a happier family life where everyone works together for the well being of all.

Ritalin, a mild central nervous system stimulant, is sometimes administered for Oppositional Defiant Disorder in addition to Attention Deficit Disorder. It affects chemicals in the brain and nerves that contribute to hyperactivity and impulse control.

The question of whether or not to use this drug (or other similar ones) is between the parents and their physician. The jury is still out on the long term effects of such a drugs and it should not be administered without much discussion and thought. Many parents are concerned that this artificial calming of the child may take away some of the personality and creativity of the child. Some parents are strictly against anything unnatural.

Educating oneself on the subject and discussing it intensely with the physician can help one make this decision, should it be decided that it could positively help your child. A behaved child can learn more easily, and the well adjusted child in the classroom is definitely a happier child.

For the treatment of the child with Oppositional Defiant Disorder, the parent should ask many questions and find out as much as they can about the behavior problem. Often times, it is a phase which will be outgrown. The more information one has on the subject will enable the parents to determine if this is a behavioral disorder that requires treatment or if it is a natural phase in your child’s development.

We’re never too old to learn, and learning to be a better parent is not something to shy from. Experts have lots of experience with various personality types and behavior disorders and it is wise to take their advice.

Just imagine, your youngster’s behavior problems may be a blessing in disguise. The entire family may learn simple ways to work together better and have a happier home life.