Oppositional Defiant Disorder Explained (& Why It’s Often Wrong) | Episode 84 with Dr. Lauren LaRose

Dr. Lauren LaRose is a board-certified child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist who takes a closer look at oppositional defiant disorder (ODD) and why she believes the diagnosis is often misunderstood. We break down the DSM-5 criteria for ODD while challenging the idea that it should stand alone, exploring how these behaviors are often symptoms of deeper underlying conditions like ADHD, anxiety, depression, trauma, learning differences, and even medical factors like PANS/PANDAS.We also unpack how temperament, environment, and family dynamics can shape a child’s behavior, and why labeling kids as “defiant” can lead to shame, missed diagnoses, and ineffective treatment. We focus on what actually helps - shifting attention away from the label and toward understanding the root cause - so parents, caregivers, and providers can better support children before behaviors escalate into more serious challenges.Join Dr. Lauren LaRose, psychiatrist and mom of three, as she brings on experts in mental health, physical health and education and explores ideas outside the traditional medical model. The Little Brain Campaign aims to make issues kids and caregivers face easier to understand, while always keeping in mind that we need to look beyond the usual answers to find what really works.Follow The Little Brain CampaignInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/littlebraincampaign