How to Deal With Oppositional Defiance
It is common for children to act out on occasion. However, children with Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) behave in consistently uncooperative, defiant, irritable and negative ways. These behaviors are directed toward all types of authority figures, including parents and teachers. Children with ODD might throw frequent temper tantrums, constantly argue with adults, deliberately annoy others and become aggressive toward peer, states MayoClinic.com.
Instructions
Avoid power struggles, and try to understand what is going on for the child. It is important to remain calm and firm when a child with ODD is acting out. Give clear messages and boundaries when needed. When adults are calm and firm, they minimize power struggles, which are one of the biggest problems for children with ODD. Try to listen and understand where the child is coming from and what is upsetting her. Feeling understood will reduce her defiance because children with ODD have less tolerance for feeling misunderstood and are more likely to act out, according to psychologytoday.com. Model good anger management and emotional regulation. For instance, yelling will show a loss of control and teach the child that it's OK to act out. Demonstrating ways to keep your emotions from escalating will show the child the proper way to handle anger and frustration. If you become upset and need a time out, it's a good idea to take it, and explain this technique to the child. You should also reward him should he use similar techniques to manage his anger, states the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry. Practice positive reinforcement as much as possible. This involves offering praise, validation, encouragement and rewards when she shows flexibility and cooperation. This helps build self-esteem, increases a sense of empowerment and motivates the child toward good behavior. It also will help her to see her own positive behaviors, the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry reports.
