Tutors for Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD)
Individuals with ODD often display a pattern of hostile, defiant, and disobedient behaviour, especially towards authority figures like parents, teachers, or other adults.
What Is Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD)?
Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) is a behavioural disorder typically diagnosed in children and adolescents. Individuals with ODD often display a pattern of hostile, defiant, and disobedient behaviour, especially towards authority figures like parents, teachers, or other adults.
Symptoms of ODD may include:
- Persistent defiance: Often arguing with adults, refusing to comply with rules or requests, deliberately annoying others, or being easily annoyed by others.
- Temper outbursts: Frequent temper tantrums, easily becoming angry or irritable, and being resentful or vindictive.
- Argumentative behaviour: Engaging in frequent arguments with adults, particularly authority figures.
The exact causes of ODD are not fully understood but are believed to involve a combination of genetic, biological, and environmental factors. Treatment typically involves a combination of therapy, behaviour management strategies, and sometimes medication if there are other co-occurring conditions like ADHD


Would a Tutor Help My Child with ODD?
Children with ODD may struggle with traditional classroom settings due to difficulties with attention, impulsivity or oppositional behaviour. A one to one tutor can provide personalised attention and support, tailored to the student’s learning needs and challenges.
Find a tutor to suit your needs
Qualified Tutors Specialising in Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD)
Children with ODD often respond best to adults who can stay calm, consistent, and genuinely curious about what sits beneath the behaviour. Our specialist tutors understand that oppositional reactions are rarely about defiance for its own sake, they’re often a response to feeling overwhelmed, misunderstood, or out of control. That’s why we focus on building trust first, creating a relationship where your child feels respected, heard, and safe to try again.
Matt B
Bournemouth, Dorset
I use a kinaesthetic approach - maximising a hands-on approach to learning so the task is tangible and visual.”

Matt B
Bournemouth, Dorset
Primary school teacher in an SEMH setting, supporting children with a range of needs, including PDA, Autism, ADHD, and more.
Sarah P
North London (Enfield)
If a student feels like they can trust you, that you want the best for them and can see the best in them, they will do their best to apply themselves.”

Sarah P
North London (Enfield)
I am an SEND Tutor with over 15 years’ experience in Primary Education. I hold a Primary PGCE, QTS and a Master’s degree in Primary Education.
Beth P
Somerset
My belief is that therapy should always be engaging and fun, with a focus on child-led activities for the best possible outcomes.”

Beth P
Somerset
Speech & Language Therapist working with children of all ages who have difficulties with speech, language & communication and skills, such as attention, listening and interaction.
How Can I Support a Child with ODD?
Supporting a child with ODD requires a combination of understanding, patience, consistency and structured interventions. Set clear, reasonable boundaries. Consistency is key. Use positive reinforcement with praise, rewards or privileges. Give the child opportunities to make choices so they feel like they have a sense of control.
Supporting a child with ODD can be challenging and emotionally draining. Make sure you prioritise your own well-being and seek support from family, friends and school or other caregivers.
If you need more help to support your child with Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD), book a FREE consultation or contact our experienced team:
Share this
More about Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD)
Related resources and podcasts

Parenting a Child with ODD: Why Traditional Strategies Backfire and What Actually Helps
Parenting a child with ODD can feel isolating, overwhelming, and relentless. Remember, you are not failing. You are navigating something incredibly complex with love, persistence, and courage. You don’t have to do it alone.

Understanding Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) in Children
Unlike typical childhood defiance, the behaviors associated with ODD are more frequent and disruptive, often causing significant issues in school and home environments.