Symptom Tests for Adults

Oppositional Defiant Disorder Symptom Test for Adults

Adults with oppositional defiant disorder (ODD) are angry more often than not, and argue regularly with family members or coworkers. Use this self-test to see if you may be presenting signs of ODD.

By ADDitude Editors Medically reviewed by Roberto Olivardia, Ph.D. on November 1, 2019

Adults with oppositional defiant disorder (ODD) feel mad at the world, misunderstood, hemmed in, and pushed around. Their constant opposition to authority figures can make it difficult to keep jobs or maintain relationships and marriages. In other words, ODD interferes with patients’ personal and professional lives and it does so without rest.

The good news is that psychotherapy and medication are both effective treatments for getting symptoms of ODD under control.

If any of the following symptoms seem familiar over the last six months or longer, take the results of this screener to a mental health professional for an evaluation.

Symptom criteria above summarized from the American Psychiatric Association DSM 5, 2013. This screening test is designed to determine whether you show symptoms similar to those of oppositional defiant disorder (ODD). It is not a diagnostic tool.  If you have concerns about possible ODD see a mental health professional. An accurate diagnosis can only be made through clinical evaluation. This self-test is for personal use only. (SOURCES: The Ultimate ADHD Test eBook; aacap.org; aacap.org; my.clevelandclinic.org)

I’ve had a problem with substance abuse. 

1 out of 18

Office rules are unfair and oppressive.

2 out of 18

I desperately need to win every argument – whether it’s with my spouse or my boss.

3 out of 18

I’m no stranger to a bar brawl; those jerks were asking for trouble.

4 out of 18

I’ve been fired before for being physically and/or verbally aggressive with coworkers.

5 out of 18

I leave my socks on the floor on purpose, just because I know it gets under my roommate’s or family members’ skin.

6 out of 18

I feel like no one likes me. 

7 out of 18

I’ve been sanctioned by human resources for violating company policies.

8 out of 18

When someone double-crosses me, revenge is the only answer.

9 out of 18

My friends tell me I have very bad road rage. 

10 out of 18

My spouse and I argue.

11 out of 18

The term ‘constructive criticism’ makes no sense to me. 

12 out of 18

It doesn’t take much to make me angry. Small things can set me off.

13 out of 18

I’ve been cited for disorderly conduct by the police.

14 out of 18

I microwave popcorn for lunch at work on purpose, just so it will stink up the kitchen for everyone else who has to use it.

15 out of 18

I can’t stand authority figures. Fight the power! 

16 out of 18

Anger is the emotion I identify with most.

17 out of 18

When someone tells me I did something wrong, I feel the need to defend myself relentlessly.

18 out of 18

(Optional) Would you like to receive your ODD symptom test results — plus more helpful resources — via email from ADDitude?

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