Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) is consistent defiant, disrespectful and challenging behavior toward people in authority. The key is the behavior disrupts daily life at home, school and in public.

Treatment for ODD usually consists of a combination of psychotherapy and medication.

There are many types of therapy and Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) is commonly used to help adolescents with oppositional behavior. Teenagers are able to actively participate in individual, group and family therapy which works well with CBT. One of the goals in Cognitive Behavior Therapy is help the teen understand their thinking patterns and how their thoughts affect their behavior.

Cognitive Behavior Therapy also focuses on teaching problem-solving skills, coping skills and ways to appropriately express and control anger. CBT is used to reduce aggressive behavior.

ODD treatment also involves family therapy and training to help build positive family and individual relationships. This is crucial to help minimize or prevent relapse. Parent training and training for others that are part of the family support system is needed to help them understand Oppositional Defiant Disorder. It can be difficult to get the family, school and the others that are part of the support system to be on the same page and consistent with handling the defiant behavior.

There is no medication approved to treat ODD. However, there is often medication that is effective in treating symptoms of a Dual Diagnosis or Co-existing Disorder.

Medications such as Ritalin, Adderall or Dexedrine which are stimulants are prescribed to treat symptom of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).

Antidepressants are prescribed for depression or anxiety, such as Lexapro and Prozac.

Other medications that may help decrease disruptive behaviors include Tenex, Catapres, Risperdal, Haldol, Thorazine or Abilify.

Sometimes therapy alone is not enough. The next step is residential treatment.

Triumph Youth Services is a licensed residential treatment center for teenage boys and young men. The staff is well trained and experienced in dealing with Oppositional Defiant Disorder in adolescents as well as Dual Diagnosis or Co-existing Disorders that often accompany ODD.

They have licensed therapists that work with teens with ODD, ADHD, depression, alcohol and substance abuse, anxiety problems and many others on a daily basis.

Triumph Youth Services offers a small, highly structured family-type environment for youth. This family-like community promotes a social environment that takes on both therapeutic and healing properties instead of maintaining negative behaviors.

Call today. It is not too late to get help.

Reference:
http://www.webmd.com/mental-health/oppositional-defiant-disorder
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oppositional_defiant_disorder