What characterizes Oppositional Defiant Disorder?

Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) is characterized by a consistent pattern of angry or irritable mood, argumentative behavior, and vindictiveness. Individuals with ODD often exhibit symptoms such as frequent temper tantrums, excessive arguing with authority figures, actively defying or refusing to comply with requests, and blaming others for their mistakes or misbehavior. This behavior typically occurs over a period of time and causes significant impairment in social, educational, or other important areas of functioning.

The symptoms can range from mild to severe and are not simply fleeting moments of frustration but rather a stable pattern that interferes with the individual’s ability to function. Understanding this pattern helps in differentiating ODD from other disorders that might present with similar symptoms, thus highlighting its distinct features. In contrast, the other options describe different emotional or behavioral conditions that do not align with the criteria for ODD.