Parenting Interventions: Top Treatment for Oppositional Defiant Disorder

Introduction

This post examines practical solutions for parents of children with Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD), drawing insights from the latest research outlined in the ‘Oppositional Defiant Disorder Primer’ (June 2023). The following key recommendations and principles, emphasizing the crucial role of positive parenting in fostering positive outcomes, are highlighted in the research.

Parenting Interventions

Parents facing challenges related to Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) can find practical solutions through parenting interventions.

These evidence-based approaches, endorsed by clinical guidelines such as those from the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) and the World Health Organization (WHO), offer tangible tools and strategies.

Nature of Parenting Interventions

Interventions can occur in group or individual settings, at home or in clinics. While primarily targeting early to middle childhood (ages 2–9), their effectiveness extends into late childhood and adolescence.

Common Core Principles

Several parenting programs share common principles rooted in social learning theory. These programs emphasize enhancing parent–child relationships, employing positive reinforcement, and incorporating logical and natural consequences.

Examples of these programs include:

• Triple P
• Incredible Years
• Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT)
• Parent Management Training – Oregon Model
• Helping the Noncompliant Child

Parenting Program Components

Effective parenting programs initiate improvement in parent-child relationships by enhancing emotional connection, incorporating child-centered play, and providing positive reinforcement for desirable behavior.

These programs then advance to instructing parents in establishing clear rules, delivering effective instructions, and implementing calm, consistent, logical/non-violent consequences when necessary, as part of positive discipline methods.

Where to Find Parenting Interventions

Parents can consult with their child’s pediatrician for local recommendations or information on parenting programs. Pediatricians, well-connected in the community, may directly provide information or suggest local counselors or parenting programs.

If direct information is not available, your pediatrician might recommend reaching out to local mental health support services.

Additionally, health insurance companies might provide information about specialists or programs that focus on these interventions. They could recommend local resources for additional guidance as well. Parents can also explore online platforms to find local or virtual services that offer parenting interventions for Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) grounded in social learning theory such as the ones mentioned above.

Conclusion

In summary, this post highlights the benefit of parenting interventions in addressing Oppositional Defiant Disorder. It explores program components, common principles, and the crucial role of positive parenting, providing a realistic and accessible approach for families facing challenges with ODD in children.

The comprehensive approach outlined ensures that parents have multiple avenues to explore and find the most suitable parenting intervention for their family’s unique circumstances.

Reference

Hawes, D. J., Dadds, M. R., Frick, P. J., Burke, J. D., & others. (2023). Oppositional defiant disorder primer. Nature Reviews Disease Primers. Advance online publication. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41572-023-00441-6