SEN & Behaviour: ODD & Conduct Disorder

By definition, Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) involves persistent patterns of challenging behaviour in children. These behaviours are typically present for six months or more and can include irritability, defiance, and destructiveness.

While these behaviours can be distressing, it’s important to remember that ODD often coexists with other neurodevelopmental conditions. Understanding the nature of these behaviours is key to providing effective support and interventions.

Recognising persistent behaviours

For a diagnosis of ODD, the DSM-5 and ICD-11 guidelines focus on the persistence, relevance, and continuity of behaviours. It’s not about occasional defiance or moodiness; the behaviours must be consistent and cause disruption across multiple settings.

Children with ODD often display ongoing irritability, regular defiance toward authority figures, and frequent frustration that can escalate into destructive behaviour. These patterns can be challenging for families, teachers, and caregivers to manage, but early recognition is the first step toward support and change.

The root causes of defiance

Understanding why a child exhibits defiant behaviour is critical. Often, what appears as resistance or disobedience can be rooted in fear, anxiety, trauma, or previous life experiences. Identifying these underlying causes allows caregivers and educators to address the real issues, rather than simply reacting to surface-level behaviours.

Research suggests that with the right support and guidance, children with ODD can experience meaningful behavioural change. Over time, consistent interventions help children develop better coping strategies, self-regulation, and positive interactions with those around them.

Effective support leads to positive change

Studies indicate that appropriate support over a period of around three years can lead to significant improvements in both behaviour and overall presentation. Dana Abraham, in her book Calm the Chaos, highlights strategies for working with the most challenging children, including those with ODD. She emphasizes the importance of understanding each child’s unique profile and tailoring approaches to support them effectively.

Effective support doesn’t have to be complex. It often involves consistent routines, clear communication, and creative approaches to daily challenges. When children feel understood and supported, their willingness to engage positively increases, reducing the intensity and frequency of challenging behaviours.

Creative strategies for everyday challenges

One example of a practical strategy involves managing mealtime chaos. Families often report that children with ODD dominate conversations at the table or prevent siblings from participating. A creative approach based on children’s interests can help.

For instance, using a concept inspired by a child’s interest in Minecraft, families can introduce a “turn-taking system” using three pieces of TNT as tokens. Each child gets a turn to speak at the table by using a token. This method not only makes mealtime more orderly but also encourages children to learn patience, sharing, and listening in a playful, engaging way.

Simple, interest-based strategies like this can transform everyday routines from battlegrounds into opportunities for growth and connection. By engaging children in ways that resonate with them, families can reduce conflict and encourage cooperation without punitive measures.

Moving forward with confidence

The key message is that ODD is not a permanent barrier. With understanding, patience, and targeted support, children can make real progress. Caregivers and educators can play a crucial role in guiding children through challenges, helping them develop the skills they need to interact positively, manage their emotions, and thrive in social and family settings.

Recognising ODD early and responding thoughtfully provides children with a sense of stability and validation. It also empowers families and educators to create environments where children feel supported, understood, and capable of change.

Ultimately, while ODD can be challenging, it is also manageable. With the right approach, children can develop resilience, self-regulation, and positive relationships that set the foundation for lifelong growth and success.

Watch our video

Here, Anne-Marie Harrison, Education Director at Ideas Afresh, explains how these conditions are diagnosed, how life experiences and the environment can influence them, and how they can sometimes appear alongside neurodivergent profiles.