Conduct Disorder Treatment & Symptoms- Trusted Psychiatric Mental Health Services in Flagstaff, AZ
As a parent, dealing with rebellious or moody teenagers is quite common. However, if your attempts to communicate with your child are met with persistent defiance and aggressive behavior, they may be exhibiting symptoms of a behavior disorder such as Conduct Disorder or Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD).
Don’t worry about your child’s behavior because at Foothills Psychiatric Clinic in Flagstaff, Arizona, Simon George, PMHNP, a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, and his dedicated team specialize in online treatment and diagnosis for conduct disorders.
Our online mental health specialists in Flagstaff are trained psychiatrists who can help you deal with such behavior of children and their needs. We offer both online/telepsychiatry consultations for conduct disorders and other mental health issues in Flagstaff. Contact us today to schedule your consultation.
Conduct Disorder/(ODD)Oppositional Defiant Disorder– FAQs
What is Conduct Disorder or (ODD) Oppositional Defiant Disorder?
Conduct Disorder, also known as Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD), is a behavioral disorder commonly observed in children and adolescents. While it’s normal for teenagers to exhibit some level of anger and disobedience, persistent defiant behavior and hostility towards authority figures—such as parents and teachers—may indicate ODD, which requires professional intervention and guidance. These behaviors often exceed typical teenage rebelliousness and can severely affect social interactions, academic performance, and family dynamics.
Conduct Disorder (ODD) is characterized by antisocial behavior, where a child or adolescent may disregard fundamental social norms and rules. Symptoms can include:
– Irresponsibility
– Skipping school
– Running away from home
– Theft or engaging in activities that infringe on the rights of others
– Physical harm towards people or animals
Conduct Disorder/ ODD Symptoms
While occasional disobedience and boundary-testing are normal in children, persistent struggles with behavior may signal underlying issues. Conduct Disorder or Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) can be identified by symptoms such as frequent tantrums, persistent arguments with adults, deliberately annoying others, and shifting blame for mistakes. Children exhibiting these symptoms may become easily irritated or angry, resist following rules or requests, and show a harsh or unkind demeanor, sometimes seeking revenge. If your child’s behavior consistently follows these patterns, it might indicate a deeper issue than typical teenage rebellion.
Conduct Disorder (ODD) is generally categorized into four primary behavioral groups:
- Aggressive Behavior
- Destructive Behavior
- Deceitfulness
- Violation of Rules or Age-Appropriate Norms
How is Conduct Disorder or ODD Diagnosed?
Conduct Disorder or Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) should be diagnosed by a qualified psychiatrist or mental health professional. The diagnostic process typically involves discussions with the child’s parents and teachers about the child’s behavior, medical history, and any childhood traumas. Observations of the child may also be part of the evaluation. In some cases, mental health testing might be necessary to determine the underlying cause of the behavior. If you observe symptoms associated with these disorders in your child, it is crucial to contact a child psychiatrist or mental health expert promptly to prevent further complications.
At Foothills Psychiatric Clinic in Flagstaff, we offer expert diagnosis and tailored treatment plans for Conduct Disorder, ODD, and other related disorders in children, teens, and adults. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation.
Treatment for Conduct Disorder or (ODD) Oppositional Defiant Disorder in Flagstaff, AZ
Foothills Psychiatry provides online psychiatric treatment and medication services in Flagstaff, AZ offers specialized treatment for Conduct Disorder and related symptoms. The treatment plan is customized based on factors such as the severity of the condition, the child’s symptoms, age, and overall health. Our treatment approach may include:
Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT):
CBT is an effective treatment option for Conduct Disorder and other behavioral disorders in children. This therapy helps children develop skills to improve problem-solving, communication, and stress management. Additionally, CBT teaches children how to control impulses and manage anger more effectively.
Family therapy:
certain changes in the family atmosphere can help in treating and curing conduct disorder or ODD in children. Therapies such as improving communication skills and family interactions, and keeping the child engaged have proven to show significant improvement in reducing the symptoms of behavioral disorders.
Medicines Management:
Foothills Psychiatric Clinic in Flagstaff, AZ does not recommend medicines for the treatment of conduct disorder in children as it may have side-effects on their brain. However, a child may need them for other symptoms or disorders, such as early symptoms of ADHD causing these behavior patterns to stabilize the situation.
To work with specialists and get compassionate treatment for Conduct Disorders or ODD conditions in Flagstaff and nearby locations in Arizona, kindly call our office at 480-608-4877 to book your consultation.
