Psychology

O.D.D. Does Not Exist

Oppositional Defiant Disorder is not a valid diagnosis approximately 99%* of the time

Jillian Enright
Fourth Wave
Published in
12 min readJul 17, 2021

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Photo credit: Karolina Grabowska

As promised at the end of a previous article, I will explain how my research and experience combined have taught me that Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) is not a valid diagnosis approximately 99%* of the time.

Please note: 99% is an entirely made-up statistic, however I will provide evidence to explain how and why I have formed this opinion.

Oppositional and Defiant

Also known as one stressed out kid lacking coping skills.

The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) defines ODD as a recurrent pattern of negativistic, defiant, disobedient, and hostile behaviour towards authority figures.

The DSM-V diagnostic criteria for ODD requires a pattern of angry/irritable mood, argumentative/defiant behaviour, or vindictiveness lasting at least 6 months as evidenced by at least four symptoms, and exhibited during interaction with at least one individual who is not a sibling.

Exclusion Criteria

Prior to diagnosing Oppositional Defiant Disorder, clinicians must differentiate between a number of other…

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Jillian Enright
Fourth Wave

She/they. Neurodivergent, 20+ yrs SW & Psych. experience. I write about mental health, neurodiversity, education, and parenting. Founder of Neurodiversity MB.