Ozark Trails Academy understands that you want to find help now for your teen boy or girl who struggles with Oppositional Defiance Disorder. Give us a call to learn about the effective therapies we use at our residential treatment center and boarding school. (417) 278-6868
What is ODD?
We can help your son or daughter struggling with Oppositional Defiance Disorder, or ODD, a psychiatric disorder that can emerge in childhood, in which he or she exhibits challenging behaviors, constantly disobeys you and, to put it simply, is basically in a nasty mood (especially when around anyone in authority).
The typical behavior of Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) includes arguing with adults, losing their temper, actively defying rules and instructions, blaming others for their own mistakes, and being angry, resentful and easily annoyed. The DSM IV manual of psychological disorders describes Oppositional Defiant Behavior as a repetitive pattern of behavior in which the basic rights of others, major age-appropriate societal norms or rules are violated as manifested by three or more of the following symptoms over a 6 to 12 month period:
- Aggression to people and animals
- Destruction of property
- Deceitfulness or theft
- Serious violations of rules
Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) usually becomes evident before age 8 years and not later than early adolescence. It is more common in families which at least one parent has a history of mood disorder, ADHD, Substance-Related Disorder and where there is serious marital discord. There are many reasons for defiance in youths; some live in poverty stricken environments,and deal with physical, emotional, verbal, mental and physical abuse that causes them to react.
While many teens exhibit some of these characteristics at various times, if your son or daughter is excessively insolent, deliberately disruptive or aggressive, visibly irritable, always arguing with authority, vindictive, maybe even blaming others for his or her mistakes, your teen might be struggling with ODD.
Helping Teens with Oppositional Defiance Disorder is Why We’re Here
Left untreated, ODD is a very frustrating condition, both for you and your teenager. It is important to identify this Disorder properly, in order to ensure that his or her behaviors do not worsen, possibly leading to problems with authorities, or violent or self-destructive behaviors.
In addition to possibly having other, treatable conditions (i.e.: ADHD or depression), ODD can be a precursor to other, more severe problems such as acute delinquency, conduct disorder and risky behavior.
Effective behavioral therapy will focus on how to prevent problematic thoughts or behaviors from unknowingly being reinforced. Positive reinforcement and praise for appropriate behaviors are key elements in successful treatment.
Ozark Trails—A Place of Hope, Healing and Purpose for Troubled Teens
Ozark Trails is an affordable residential treatment center that provides outstanding clinical therapy, incredible academic learning, and amazing outdoor responsibility and adventure for teen girls and boys, ages 12-17. Our program is family focused, and students receive individual treatment care by licensed clinical therapists.
Ozark Trails rests on 750 acres near Willow Springs, MO. Daily life and therapy here includes working with horses, chickens, farming, rafting, spelunking, rock climbing, hiking, wilderness learning, and so much more. With an unlimited access to spring rivers, caves, hiking, equine, and biking trails, we have the perfect balance of nature, inclusive of a large, comfortable facility to let our students feel safe in a home environment.
Again, if your teen boy or girl needs help recovering from Oppositional Defiance Disorder, please call us at (417) 278-6868 now. We want to help him or her find new positive ways to manage life’s obstacles and traumas, and discover a true change of heart.
