Another trip to school to complain about hyperactive little Johnny bullying little Sara. This kid is just out of control but it seems that no one can figure out what to do about his aggressive and disruptive bad attitude. Furthermore, it seems as if little Johnny is actually getting worse, not better.
The story above is just one example how a child who has ADHD, ODD, and which someday could be diagnosed with antisocial personality disorder presents very serious challenges for parents, educators, and their peers. In this article we will briefly explore the link between these three conditions, all the while attempting to gain a glimpse into the world of these sometimes troubled children.
ODD and ADHD
ODD stands for oppositional defiant disorder which is a disconcerting condition that has many similarities to ADHD. Characteristics include defiant behavior that can range from ignoring rules to physical violence.
A person with ODD may not fit in well socially, in fact others may be fearful of their unpredictability and aggression and avoid them like the plague.
While children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder may not experience the extreme behaviors they may act out in socially unacceptable ways.
The co-occurrence of ADHD an ODD is considerable presenting many treatment and symptoms management challenges. By some estimates the number of children with both conditions may exceed 50 percent, with it not being uncommon for a child, or young adult, to receive both labels.
Many such children end up in trouble at school and with the authorities. They are prone to destroy property or take extreme risks. They have a far greater chance of ending up in the criminal justice system, dropping out of school, receiving a speeding ticket, running away from home, or getting pregnant.
Recently, specialists has recognized that those with ODD may develop antisocial personality disorder as they get older creating many new obstacles for recovery.
Antisocial personality disorder
If you know someone with condition you are probably just about at your wits end trying to get along with them. They typically disregard the feelings of others, lie, have no respect for authority, are aggressive, irresponsible, and show no regret for their behavior. Some may even view those with antisocial personality disorder as a lost cause not being worth the time or effort to employ or help deal with their numerous personal issues.
This disorder is not seen in children and in order to be diagnosed with this condition a person must be over 18 years of age. Children who exhibit the symptoms associated with antisocial personality disorder are often diagnosed with ODD instead.
ADHD and ODD – How parents may be able to help
Few would argue that ADHD, ODD, and antisocial personality disorder are all difficult conditions to manage alone and may require the help of a specialist. That said, in the case of ADHD and ODD considering a parental management training class might be something worth considering. These types of classes can arm parents with the most recent research information along with helpful condition management techniques.
What else might help? As a parent sometimes it is difficult to have a positive attitude in dealing with problematic children but successful treatment may depend on it. It might surprise you to learn that positive reinforcement is one of the main components of parent management training for both ADHD and ODD.