Which of the following is the key distinguishing feature between Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) and Conduct Disorder (CD)?

Explanation

## Distinguishing ODD from Conduct Disorder **Key Point:** The fundamental difference lies in the *scope and severity* of rule-breaking behaviour. ### Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) - Pattern of defiance, hostility, and argumentativeness directed primarily at **authority figures** (parents, teachers) - Does NOT involve violation of others' basic rights - Behaviours: refusal to comply, arguing, losing temper, vindictiveness - No serious aggression, cruelty, or property destruction - Symptoms cause impairment but remain within the interpersonal/authority domain ### Conduct Disorder (CD) - Persistent pattern that **violates the basic rights of others** and major societal norms - Includes aggression to people/animals, destruction of property, deceitfulness, theft, serious rule violations - Broader impact on society, not just authority relationships - More severe and pervasive than ODD ### Relationship - ODD often precedes CD developmentally - ODD is NOT a prerequisite for CD diagnosis - A child with CD may or may not have had ODD **High-Yield:** Remember: **ODD = defiance of authority; CD = violation of rights of others and societal norms.** **Mnemonic:** **ODD = Opposition to authority; CD = Cruelty/violation of others' rights** | Feature | ODD | CD | |---------|-----|----| | Target of defiance | Authority figures | Others' rights & societal norms | | Aggression | Minimal/reactive | Prominent/proactive | | Property destruction | Rare | Common | | Deceitfulness/theft | Absent | Present | | Severity | Mild-moderate | Moderate-severe |