More Causes of ODD

By Rick Shaffer
Unfortunately, the exact cause of ODD is not known. However, there are several theories regarding the cause of the disorder. Researchers believe that the disorder may be related to:


• A child’s temperament and the family’s response to it


• A child’s social skills


• A child’s ability to communicate through language


• How parents discipline and understand the child


• The way a child’s body adjusts to arousal and stimulation


• Having parents who are overly concerned with power and control


• Disrupted childcare – involving, for example, multiple caregivers


• An inherited disposition to the disorder, possibly both environmental as well as genetic


• Neurological damage (such as a head injury)


• Prenatal and perinatal factors.

American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry – 202-966-7300; www.aacap.org – The academy’s “Facts for Families” series features two items relevant to families interested in ODD. Check out www.aacap.org/publications/factsfam/72.htm and www.aacap.org/publications/factsfam/discplin.htm

Rick Shaffer is an attorney and freelance writer who often writes on health and financial issues.
From www.parenthood.com