How do therapists treat oppositional defiant disorder?

ODD involves frequent episodes of disruptive behaviour and persistent hostility and defiance of authority figures—episodes typically made worse by harsh punishment—and so a therapist will try to address both the issues that cause anger and defiance and the way adults respond to them. Working from the idea that children with ODD understand the difference between right and wrong, and that they want to behave well, a therapist will help patients master the emotional-regulation and social skills they lack. By showing empathy, ignoring behaviours that are not violent or destructive, and rewarding positive steps, a therapist can help a child improve over time, especially when parents and teachers are taught to adopt the same approach.

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