Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 28, 2026
09:16
Use of a Video Scoring Anchor for Rapid Serial Assessment of Social Communication in Toddlers
Published on: March 14, 2018
Sex differences in oppositional defiant disorder
Esther Trepat1, Lourdes Ezpeleta
1Facultad de Psicología, Universidad Autónoma de Barcelona, 08193 Barcelona, Spain. etrepat@ipsicologia.cat
Psicothema
|November 4, 2011
Summary
Boys with Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) show more externalizing symptoms and functional impairment, while girls exhibit higher rates of internalizing disorders. Understanding these sex differences is crucial for effective ODD diagnosis and treatment.
Area of Science:
- Child and Adolescent Psychiatry
- Developmental Psychology
- Behavioral Science
Background:
- Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) is a common behavioral disorder in children and adolescents.
- Previous research suggests potential sex differences in ODD presentation, but further investigation is warranted.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate sex-based differences in ODD symptoms, comorbidities, and functional impairment among pediatric outpatients.
- To inform tailored diagnostic and treatment strategies for ODD in boys and girls.
Main Methods:
- A cohort of 343 children and adolescents (aged 8–17) diagnosed with ODD was assessed.
- Utilized semi-structured diagnostic interviews and dimensional measures of psychopathology and functional impairment.
Main Results:
- Boys with ODD more frequently exhibited "deliberately annoys" and "blames others" symptoms, comorbid ADHD, and greater school/community functional impairment.
- Girls with ODD showed higher comorbidity with internalizing symptoms, including anxiety, depression, and somatic complaints.
Conclusions:
- Significant sex differences exist in the clinical presentation of ODD.
- Clinical assessment and treatment approaches for ODD should consider the patient's sex for improved efficacy.
Related Concept Videos
01:30Oppositional Defiant Disorder
A persistent pattern of angry or irritable mood, defiant behavior, or vindictiveness characterizes Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD). Symptoms must occur over at least six months, involve interactions with individuals beyond siblings, and meet specific diagnostic criteria to be clinically significant. The disorder affects emotional regulation, social interactions, and behavior, often manifesting early in life and influencing long-term development and functioning.
Diagnostic Criteria and...
Diagnostic Criteria and...
01:28Conduct Disorder
Conduct disorder is a complex mental health diagnosis characterized by a repetitive and persistent pattern of behavior that violates societal norms, the rights of others, or age-appropriate rules. The diagnostic criteria for conduct disorder require the presence of at least three problematic behaviors within the past 12 months, with at least one occurring in the past six months. These behaviors are grouped into four categories: aggression toward people and animals; destruction of property;...
01:30Socioemotional Experience and Gender Development
Social-emotional experiences and cultural influences play significant roles in shaping gender development. During middle childhood, from ages 6 to 11, peer groups become dominant in reinforcing gender norms. Children in this age group often align with same-gender peer groups, which actively encourage behaviors that conform to traditional gender roles. For instance, boys may be discouraged from engaging in activities perceived as feminine, reinforcing culturally dictated norms about masculinity...
01:43Sex-linked Disorders
Like autosomes, sex chromosomes contain a variety of genes necessary for normal body function. When a mutation in one of these genes results in biological deficits, the disorder is considered sex-linked.
01:43Sex Linked Disorders
Like autosomes, sex chromosomes contain a variety of genes necessary for normal body function. When a mutation in one of these genes results in biological deficits, the disorder is considered sex-linked.
01:29Self-Discrepancy and Its Effects
Self-discrepancy theory explains how people compare their actual self to their ideal and ought selves and how mismatches between these self-guides can lead to emotional distress. Developed by E. Tory Higgins, the theory distinguishes among three components of self-concept: the actual self, the ideal self, and the ought self. These refer respectively to how individuals perceive themselves, how they aspire to be, and how they believe they are obligated to be. Emotional well-being, self-esteem,...