Children and teens with oppositional defiant disorder have a pattern of disobedient, hostile and defiant behavior directed toward authority figures including parents, teachers, principals, and coaches. All children go through periods of uncooperative or hostile behavior that is normal for their age, independence-seeking behavior, especially in toddlers and teenagers. However, those with ODD exhibit these behaviors at school, at home and in public on a constant basis and symptoms interfere with learning, classroom and household functioning and relationships with others.
