Yes, therapy can be highly effective in treating oppositional defiant disorder (ODD). ODD is a disruptive disorder characterized by a pattern of angry and argumentative behavior. ODD is common among young children between the ages of 3-7, and impacts an estimated 3.3% of the population.
Family therapy can be effective for a child with ODD because it helps all family members improve their interactions and communication, not just the child.
Another popular type of therapy for ODD is cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). With CBT, the affected child learns to control their anger, communicate, and solve problems. Parents can also try peer group therapy to improve a child's social skills.
This 3-minute, online quiz can be used if you think your child is having emotional, attentional, or behavioral difficulties.