Disruptive behavior disorders involve an inability to regulate emotions and behaviors, resulting in persistent anger, hostility, and aggression. Mastering this material requires distinguishing the three primary diagnoses: Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD), Intermittent Explosive Disorder (IED), and Conduct Disorder (CD).

1. Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD)

• Core Feature: An enduring pattern of defiant, disobedient, and hostile behavior toward authority figures, without major antisocial violations.
• Key Characteristics: Individuals show reduced sensitivity to rewards and punishments, impaired decision-making, and low self-concept. ODD is highly comorbid with ADHD, anxiety, and mood disorders. Early onset increases the risk of developing conduct disorder ...