| Prevalence |
Estimates of prevalence rates for this disorder vary widely, from 1% to 11%, depending on the specific population investigated and the specific research methods used. |
| Onset |
Symptoms usually emerge before 8 years of age, although they may become evident as late as 13. The onset progresses gradually, over months or even years, until the symptoms reach the point where the diagnostic criteria are met. Symptoms are typically observed at home before occurring in other contexts. |
| Comorbidity |
Up to 90% of children with oppositional defiant disorder also exhibit symptoms of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (Frick & Muñoz, 2006). |
| Course |
Most people with the childhood-onset type of conduct disorder were previously diagnosed with oppositional defiant disorder (Whittinger et al., 2007); however, most people with oppositional defiant disorder do not go on to develop conduct disorder. |
| Gender Differences |
Before puberty, more males than females are diagnosed with oppositional defiant disorder. After puberty, there is no sex difference in prevalence. Males exhibit more persistent and more confrontational symptoms than females do. |
| Cultural Differences |
Different cultures may have different norms concerning what defiant behaviors are considered inappropriate or unacceptable. |
| Source: Unless otherwise noted, the source for information is American Psychiatric Association, 2013. |