At Saible Neuropsychology, we understand that children navigate a complex world as they learn and grow. While some level of argumentative behavior, aggression, and defiance can be a part of childhood development, persistent and extreme disruptive behaviors may signal an underlying behavior disorder. Our dedicated team is here to provide guidance and effective strategies to help both children and families overcome these challenges and foster healthy, positive behaviors.

Recognizing Disruptive Behaviors

Disruptive behavior disorders are characterized by behaviors that stand out as atypical for a child’s age, persist over time, and have a significant impact on various aspects of a child’s life. These behaviors are often referred to as “externalizing disorders” due to their outwardly directed nature towards others and acting out. Two common disruptive behavior disorders are Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) and Conduct Disorder (CD). 

Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD)

ODD is diagnosed when a child consistently displays oppositional and defiant behaviors, causing significant disruptions in various settings such as home, school, and with peers. ODD usually starts before 8 years of age but no later than by about 12 years of age. Children with ODD are more likely to act oppositional or defiant around people they know well, such as family members, a regular care provider, or a teacher. 

Children with ODD show these behaviors more often than other children their age.

• Frequent anger or losing one’s temper
• Often arguing with adults or refusing to comply with adults’ rules or requests
• Often resentful or spiteful
• Deliberately annoying others or becoming easily annoyed
• Often blaming other people for one’s own mistakes or misbehavior

Conduct Disorder

Conduct Disorder (CD) is diagnosed when children show an ongoing pattern of aggression toward others and serious violations of rules and social norms at home, in school, and with peers.  These behaviors can extend to harming others and negatively impacting relationships. These rule violations may involve breaking the law and result in arrest. Children with conduct disorder are more likely to become injured and may have difficulties getting along with peers.

Children with CD show these behaviors more often than other children their age.

• Engaging in risky behaviors 
• Breaking serious rules, such as running away, staying out at night when told not to, or skipping school
• Physically aggressive in a way that causes harm, such as bullying, fighting, or being cruel to animals
• Lying, stealing, or damaging other people’s property on purpose
• Disregard for the rights and feelings of others

Effective Treatment for Disruptive Behavior Disorders

Early intervention and treatment is crucial for addressing disruptive behavior disorders. Tailoring treatment to meet the specific needs of each child and family is key to achieving positive outcomes. We offer evidence-based strategies to help children and families manage and improve behaviors.  

Parent training in behavior therapy is strongly supported as an effective approach for disruptive behavior. Therapists work closely with parents to enhance the parent-child relationship, develop effective communication, and teach parents how to respond to challenging behaviors in a constructive manner.

Comprehensive treatment can involve the child, family, and school for positive results. This approach combines training and therapy to equip all parties with the tools they need to address disruptive behaviors and promote healthy interactions.  

Empowering Positive Change

At Saible Neuropsychology, we are committed to supporting children and families on their journey toward positive behavior change. Our compassionate team is here to provide guidance, understanding, and strategies needed to overcome disruptive behavior disorders and create a more harmonious and fulfilling family dynamic. Contact us today to take the first step toward a brighter future for your child.