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A–Z Glossary

Oppositional Defiant Disorder

Oppositional defiant disorder is a condition involving persistent angry mood, argumentative behavior, refusal to comply, or vindictiveness that impairs functioning.

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Search results for: Oppositional Defiant Disorder

Child ignores instructions and says no to everything

Child ignores instructions and says no to everything

Understanding refusal without blame A child who ignores instructions may look willfully disobedient, but behavior is rarely that simple. Refusal is a form of communication. It may mean “I want control,” “I do not understand,” “this transition is too hard,” “I am overwhelmed,” “I expect a fight,” or “this demand feels unsafe or unfair.” The […]

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Refusing simple requests: what may be behind the behavior

Refusing simple requests: what may be behind the behavior

Why a simple request may feel difficult Adults often judge a request by the task itself: picking up a toy, brushing teeth, putting on socks, or walking to the car. A child may experience the same request differently. The demand may require stopping a preferred activity, shifting attention, tolerating an unpleasant sensation, organizing several steps, […]

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Child defies rules constantly

Child defies rules constantly

Understanding constant defiance without blame A child who defies rules constantly may argue, refuse directions, ignore limits, provoke conflict, blame others, or appear deliberately oppositional. For caregivers, this can be exhausting and emotionally painful. It is common to think, “They know the rule, so why do they keep doing it?” Yet knowing a rule and […]

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