How to Parent Oppositional Defiance with Your Teenager

This Episode's Focus: Exploring mood disorders in ADHD, particularly Oppositional Defiance (OD), and effective parenting strategies.

Key Discussion Points:

• The Challenge of Mood Disorders in ADHD: Understanding how mood disorders, like OD, are common in ADHD and can pose significant challenges for parents. Insight from ADHD clinician Cindy Goldrich emphasizes the need for parents to be strong and calm.

• Understanding Oppositional Defiance (OD): Exploring the spectrum of OD behaviors, from simple non-compliance to more severe instances. Discussion on how OD is often a defensive mechanism for children with ADHD.

• Parenting Strategies for Managing OD:

  • Be Imperturbable: Emphasizing the importance of being a steady and unwavering presence for your child.
  • Love Unconditionally: Encouraging showing affection and support in ways your child can accept.
  • Navigating Moods: Strategies on how to not escalate situations and how to provide space and support.
  • Re-Engaging with Empathy: Tips on how to reconnect with your child post-conflict, using empathy and understanding.

• The Importance of Consistent Modeling: Discussing why modeling calm and composed behavior is crucial in teaching teens with ADHD to regulate their moods effectively.

• The Parent's Role: Understanding that parenting a child with ADHD requires additional measures of love, empathy, and reinforcement. Encouragement for parents to remain strong and resolved in their journey.