Describe the differences between conduct disorder and oppositional defiant disorder and typical treatment approaches.

• A. ODD centers on defiance and negativism; CD includes aggression and violations of rights; treatments include PMT, family therapy, and risk management strategies
• B. ODD and CD are identical in presentation
• C. CD is a mood disorder
• D. Treatments rely solely on medication

Answer: (A)

Oppositional Defiant Disorder centers on a pattern of defiant, argumentative, and oppositional behavior and negative mood toward authority, while Conduct Disorder involves a more serious and persistent pattern of violating the rights of others or major societal norms, including aggression toward people or animals, property destruction, deceit, or theft. Because these behaviors disrupt functioning and safety, effective treatment typically combines Parent Management Training to improve parenting strategies, family therapy to address relational dynamics, and risk management or safety planning to reduce harm and coordinate supports across home, school, and community. Medication is not the primary treatment and is usually reserved for co-occurring conditions (like ADHD or mood symptoms) rather than treating the disorder itself. The other statements misstate the distinctions or overemphasize medication as the sole approach.