Which symptom pattern is characteristic of Oppositional Defiant Disorder?

• A. Aggression toward animals
• B. Hyperactivity
• C. Delusions
• D. Pattern of angry/irritable mood, argumentative/defiant behavior, vindictiveness

Answer: (D)

Oppositional Defiant Disorder is defined by a persistent pattern of angry/irritable mood, argumentative/defiant behavior, and vindictiveness toward authority figures. This pattern lasts at least six months and causes distress or impairment in social, academic, or work settings. Within this pattern, you commonly see frequent loss of temper, arguments with adults, active defiance or refusal to comply with requests or rules, deliberate annoyance of others, blaming others for one’s mistakes, and being spiteful or vindictive at least twice in a six-month period. This constellation specifically reflects a defiant stance toward authority rather than broader behavioral problems or psychotic symptoms. In contrast, aggression toward animals or property damage suggests Conduct Disorder; hyperactivity points to ADHD; delusions indicate a psychotic disorder. Therefore, the described symptom pattern is the hallmark of Oppositional Defiant Disorder.