What serious condition can occur as a progression of oppositional defiant disorder?

Oppositional defiant disorder (ODD) is characterized by a pattern of angry, irritable mood, argumentative or defiant behavior, and vindictiveness. As children with ODD grow, they may develop more severe behavioral issues that can lead to conduct disorder. Conduct disorder is distinguished by more serious violations of societal norms and the rights of others, such as aggression toward people or animals, destruction of property, deceitfulness, or serious rule violations.

The connection between ODD and conduct disorder is crucial to understanding the progression of behavioral issues. ODD often serves as a precursor to conduct disorder; therefore, early intervention in cases of ODD is essential in preventing its escalation into this more severe condition. While other disorders like major depressive disorder or various anxiety disorders can occur in individuals with ODD, they are not direct progressions from the disorder. In contrast, conduct disorder represents a more severe escalation of the behaviors that are characteristic of ODD.