Oppositional Defiant Disorder — MCQs
A 10 year old boy was brought to the psychiatrist by parents with complaints of not following the rules of school, arguing with teachers and fellow students. The parents report that he misbehaves with them too and at times tries to provoke them. What is the likely diagnosis?
A 6 year old child who does not interact with other children of his age group and prefers playing alone with repetitive behaviors, is likely to be suffering from:
A 13-year-old boy is brought by his parents with history of frequent fighting at school, disciplinary problems, stealing money, assaulting his batchmates and being weak in studies. What is the most appropriate diagnosis for this child:
A 9-year-old child is restless. He is hyperactive, and his teacher complains that he does not listen to the teachings, disturbs other students, and shows less interest in playing. The likely diagnosis is?
Which of the following is not a Cluster A personality disorder?
Best therapy suited to teach daily life skills to a child with intellectual disability:
A 10-year-old child has been restless, unable to sit still in class, frequently interrupting others, and unable to complete homework for the past 8 months. Teachers report similar inattentive and hyperactive behaviors at school. Academic performance has declined significantly. The parents are extremely distressed. What would you advise as the initial management?
A 15-year-old adolescent is brought in for evaluation due to repeated failure to conform to social norms, deceitfulness, impulsivity, and lack of remorse. What is the most likely diagnosis?
Which of the following is not a central characteristic of childhood autism?
A 39-year-old male patient presents with waxy flexibility, negativism and rigidity. Most probable diagnosis is?
Oppositional Defiant Disorder Indian Medical PG Practice Questions and MCQs
Question 1: A 10 year old boy was brought to the psychiatrist by parents with complaints of not following the rules of school, arguing with teachers and fellow students. The parents report that he misbehaves with them too and at times tries to provoke them. What is the likely diagnosis?
- A. Conduct disorder
- B. Oppositional defiant disorder (Correct Answer)
- C. Autism spectrum disorder
- D. Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder
Explanation: **Oppositional defiant disorder** - The boy's behaviors of **not following rules**, arguing with teachers and students, and **provoking parents** are characteristic features of ODD. - ODD is defined by a pattern of **angry/irritable mood**, argumentative/defiant behavior, or vindictiveness. *Conduct disorder* - Conduct disorder involves more serious violations of the **rights of others** or major **societal norms**, such as aggression towards people or animals, destruction of property, deceitfulness, or theft. - The scenario describes defiant and argumentative behavior, not the severe actions typical of conduct disorder. *Autism spectrum disorder* - ASD is characterized by persistent deficits in **social communication and interaction** across multiple contexts, and **restricted, repetitive patterns of behavior, interests, or activities.** - The provided symptoms do not align with the core diagnostic criteria for autism spectrum disorder. *Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder* - ADHD involves a persistent pattern of **inattention** and/or **hyperactivity-impulsivity** that interferes with functioning or development. - While some defiant behavior can coexist with ADHD, the primary presentation here is one of opposition and defiance, not predominantly inattention or hyperactivity.
Question 2: A 6 year old child who does not interact with other children of his age group and prefers playing alone with repetitive behaviors, is likely to be suffering from:
- A. ADHD
- B. Autism (Correct Answer)
- C. Depression
- D. Bipolar disorder
Explanation: ***Autism*** - Difficulties in **social interaction** and **communication**, along with **repetitive behaviors** and restricted interests, are core diagnostic features of **Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)**. - The child's preference for playing alone and lack of interaction with peers are hallmark signs of **social deficits** in ASD. *ADHD* - **Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)** primarily involves difficulties with **inattention**, **hyperactivity**, and **impulsivity**. - While children with ADHD may struggle socially, repetitive behaviors and a complete lack of interest in peer interaction are not typical primary symptoms. *Depression* - **Depression** in children often presents with **sadness**, **loss of interest** in previously enjoyed activities, changes in sleep or appetite, and irritability. - Social withdrawal in depression is usually due to low mood or anhedonia, rather than a fundamental difficulty in social understanding or a preference for repetitive play. *Bipolar disorder* - **Bipolar disorder** in children involves distinct episodes of **mania** (elevated mood, increased energy, decreased need for sleep) and **depression**. - The symptoms described do not align with the characteristic mood swings and episodic nature of bipolar disorder.
Question 3: A 13-year-old boy is brought by his parents with history of frequent fighting at school, disciplinary problems, stealing money, assaulting his batchmates and being weak in studies. What is the most appropriate diagnosis for this child:
- A. Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder
- B. Autism
- C. Conduct disorder (Correct Answer)
- D. Nothing abnormal (teenage phenomenon)
Explanation: ***Conduct disorder*** - This diagnosis is strongly indicated by the child's pattern of **aggressive behavior** (assaulting batchmates), **coercion/theft** (stealing money), and frequent **rule-breaking** (fighting, disciplinary problems). - These actions represent a persistent disregard for societal norms and the rights of others, characteristic of **conduct disorder** in a 13-year-old. *Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder* - While children with **ADHD** may have disciplinary problems due to impulsivity and inattention, the hallmark features of **aggression** and **theft** are not primary symptoms. - The core symptoms of ADHD are problems with **inattention, hyperactivity**, and **impulsivity**, which are not the central focus of this presentation. *Autism* - **Autism spectrum disorder** is characterized by persistent deficits in **social communication and interaction**, and **restricted, repetitive patterns of behavior**. - The described behaviors of fighting, stealing, and assaulting are not typical manifestations of autism. *Nothing abnormal (teenage phenomenon)* - While some behavioral changes are normal during adolescence, a consistent pattern of **assault, theft, and severe disciplinary problems** goes beyond normal teenage rebellion. - These behaviors indicate a significant underlying issue requiring professional intervention, not just a passing phase.
Question 4: A 9-year-old child is restless. He is hyperactive, and his teacher complains that he does not listen to the teachings, disturbs other students, and shows less interest in playing. The likely diagnosis is?
- A. Cerebral palsy
- B. Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) (Correct Answer)
- C. Delirium
- D. Mania
Explanation: ***Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)*** - The symptoms described, such as **restlessness**, **hyperactivity**, **difficulty listening**, and **disturbing others**, are classic indicators of **Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder** in a child. - ADHD is characterized by a persistent pattern of inattention and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity that interferes with functioning or development. - The decreased interest in playing may reflect difficulty with **structured play activities** or **peer interactions** rather than lack of interest in play itself, which can occur in ADHD due to impulsivity and inattention affecting social relationships. *Cerebral palsy* - **Cerebral palsy** is a group of permanent movement disorders that appear in early childhood and primarily affect **muscle coordination and motor control**. - It does not explain the behavioral and attentional issues described in the case, and the focus here is on behavioral problems rather than motor dysfunction. *Delirium* - **Delirium** is an acute, fluctuating disturbance in attention and cognition, often caused by an underlying medical condition, substance intoxication, or withdrawal. - It typically has an **abrupt onset** and waxing-waning course with altered consciousness, which is not consistent with the chronic, stable presentation in this child. *Mania* - **Mania** is a state of elevated, expansive, or irritable mood and increased goal-directed activity or energy, typically seen in **bipolar disorder**. - While it can involve **hyperactivity** and distractibility, mania would present with **elevated/irritable mood**, **decreased need for sleep**, **pressured speech**, and **grandiosity**, which are not described here. The symptom complex is more consistent with the developmental disorder of ADHD.
Question 5: Which of the following is not a Cluster A personality disorder?
- A. schizoid
- B. schizotypal
- C. paranoid
- D. anankastic (Correct Answer)
Explanation: ***Anankastic*** - **Anankastic personality disorder**, also known as **obsessive-compulsive personality disorder (OCPD)**, is classified under **Cluster C** personality disorders. - Cluster C disorders are characterized by anxious, fearful thinking or behavior, which differentiates them from the odd or eccentric behaviors of Cluster A. *Schizoid* - **Schizoid personality disorder** is a **Cluster A** personality disorder, characterized by a pervasive pattern of detachment from social relationships and a restricted range of expression of emotions in interpersonal settings. - Individuals with schizoid personality disorder typically show no desire for close relationships, including those with family members. *Schizotypal* - **Schizotypal personality disorder** is a **Cluster A** personality disorder, characterized by pervasive patterns of social and interpersonal deficits marked by acute discomfort with, and reduced capacity for, close relationships, as well as by cognitive or perceptual distortions and eccentricities of behavior. - These individuals may have odd beliefs or magical thinking that is inconsistent with cultural norms. *Paranoid* - **Paranoid personality disorder** is a **Cluster A** personality disorder, characterized by a pervasive distrust and suspiciousness of others, such that their motives are interpreted as malevolent. - Individuals with this disorder often believe that others are exploiting, harming, or deceiving them, even without sufficient basis.
Question 6: Best therapy suited to teach daily life skills to a child with intellectual disability:
- A. Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) (Correct Answer)
- B. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
- C. Social skills training
- D. Self-instructional training
Explanation: **Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)** - **ABA** is a highly structured, evidence-based therapy that focuses on teaching specific skills by breaking them down into smaller steps and using **positive reinforcement**. - It is particularly effective for children with intellectual disabilities in acquiring **adaptive daily living skills**, communication, and social behaviors. *Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)* - **CBT** primarily targets changing negative thought patterns and behaviors, requiring a level of abstract reasoning that may be challenging for children with significant intellectual disabilities. - While it can be adapted, its core methods rely on cognitive processes that might not be the most direct approach for teaching basic daily life skills to a mentally challenged child. *Social skills training* - **Social skills training** focuses specifically on improving social interactions and communication within social contexts. - While important for overall development, it is a subcomponent of broader skill development and may not directly address all aspects of **daily living skills** in a comprehensive manner. *Self-instructional training* - **Self-instructional training** involves teaching individuals to guide themselves through tasks using internal speech or self-talk, which relies on a child's ability to internalize and follow complex verbal instructions. - This approach might be too cognitively demanding for a child with significant developmental delays when the primary goal is mastering basic, functional daily life skills.
Question 7: A 10-year-old child has been restless, unable to sit still in class, frequently interrupting others, and unable to complete homework for the past 8 months. Teachers report similar inattentive and hyperactive behaviors at school. Academic performance has declined significantly. The parents are extremely distressed. What would you advise as the initial management?
- A. Behaviour therapy (Correct Answer)
- B. It is a normal behaviour
- C. Needs change in environment
- D. It is a serious illness that requires medical treatment
Explanation: ***Behaviour therapy*** - The child's symptoms of **persistent restlessness**, **inattention**, **hyperactivity**, and **impulsivity** occurring in **multiple settings** (home and school) for **>6 months** with **functional impairment** (declining academic performance) meet the criteria for **Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)**. - **Behavioral therapy**, including parent training and school-based interventions, is the **first-line treatment for ADHD** in children, especially for those under 12 years with mild to moderate symptoms. - Behavioral interventions include positive reinforcement, structured routines, organizational skills training, and contingency management. - According to **AAP guidelines**, behavioral therapy should be initiated before or alongside medication in school-aged children. *It is a normal behaviour* - While some level of activity and desire to play is developmentally appropriate, the **duration (8 months)**, **pervasiveness across multiple settings** (home and school), and **significant functional impairment** (academic decline) clearly distinguish this from normal childhood behavior. - Normal developmental exuberance does not cause persistent difficulties requiring teacher intervention or academic performance decline. *It is a serious illness that requires medical treatment* - ADHD is a **neurodevelopmental disorder** but **behavioral therapy is the first-line intervention** for school-aged children with ADHD before considering pharmacotherapy. - Medication (stimulants like methylphenidate or atomoxetine) is typically reserved for moderate to severe cases, or when behavioral interventions alone are insufficient. - Immediate medication without behavioral intervention is not the standard initial approach for this age group. *Needs change in environment* - While **environmental modifications** (structured routines, reduced distractions, clear expectations) are important **components of behavioral therapy**, they alone are insufficient without comprehensive behavioral intervention strategies. - A simple "change in environment" without structured therapeutic approaches and parent/teacher training will not adequately address ADHD symptoms.
Question 8: A 15-year-old adolescent is brought in for evaluation due to repeated failure to conform to social norms, deceitfulness, impulsivity, and lack of remorse. What is the most likely diagnosis?
- A. Conduct disorder (Correct Answer)
- B. Oppositional defiant disorder
- C. Intermittent explosive disorder
- D. Antisocial personality disorder
Explanation: ***Conduct disorder*** - This diagnosis is characterized by repeated patterns of behavior that **violate the rights of others** or major societal norms, consistent with the patient's presentation of **deceitfulness, impulsivity, and lack of remorse**. - For individuals under 18, it is the appropriate diagnosis, as **Antisocial Personality Disorder** cannot be diagnosed before turning 18. *Oppositional defiant disorder* - This condition involves a pattern of **angry/irritable mood, argumentative/defiant behavior**, or vindictiveness. It does not typically include the severe violations of societal norms or the rights of others seen in this case. - While there is defiance, it generally lacks the **aggression** towards people/animals, **destruction of property**, or **deceitfulness/theft** that characterize conduct disorder. *Intermittent explosive disorder* - This disorder is marked by **recurrent behavioral outbursts** representing a failure to control aggressive impulses. - The outbursts are typically **disproportionate** to the provocation but do not necessarily involve the persistent pattern of violating others' rights or societal rules as described. *Antisocial personality disorder* - This diagnosis requires an individual to be at least **18 years old** and have a history of conduct disorder symptoms before age 15. - Although the symptoms align with the criteria for **antisocial behavior**, the patient's age (15 years old) precludes this diagnosis.
Question 9: Which of the following is not a central characteristic of childhood autism?
- A. Callous and unemotional traits (Correct Answer)
- B. Impaired communication
- C. Restricted, repetitive behaviour
- D. Impaired social interaction
Explanation: ***Callous and unemotional traits*** - While some individuals with autism may struggle with empathy, **callous and unemotional traits** are not a core diagnostic feature of autism spectrum disorder (ASD); they are more commonly associated with conditions like **conduct disorder** or **antisocial personality disorder**. - **Emotional dysregulation** and **difficulty recognizing others' emotions** are common in autism, but this differs from a pervasive pattern of callousness. *Impaired communication* - **Impaired verbal and nonverbal communication** is a fundamental diagnostic criterion for autism spectrum disorder, ranging from absent speech to difficulties with conversations and understanding social cues. - This can manifest as problems with **initiating or maintaining conversations**, **lack of eye contact**, and **unusual tone of voice**. *Restricted, repetitive behaviour* - **Restricted, repetitive patterns of behavior, interests, or activities** are a core diagnostic feature of ASD. - Examples include **stereotyped motor movements**, **insistence on sameness**, **highly restricted or fixated interests**, and **unusual sensory sensitivities**. *Impaired social interaction* - **Persistent deficits in social communication and social interaction** across multiple contexts are defining characteristics of autism. - This includes difficulties with **social-emotional reciprocity**, **nonverbal communication**, and **developing, maintaining, and understanding relationships**.
Question 10: A 39-year-old male patient presents with waxy flexibility, negativism and rigidity. Most probable diagnosis is?
- A. None of the options
- B. Stuporous catatonia (Correct Answer)
- C. Paranoid schizophrenia
- D. Excitatory catatonia
Explanation: ***Stuporous catatonia*** - **Waxy flexibility**, **negativism**, and **rigidity** are classic symptoms of catatonia, specifically indicating the stuporous presentation where there is a marked decrease in reactivity to the environment. - In this subtype, the patient often exhibits features such as **immobility**, mutism, and fixed postures, alongside the mentioned symptoms. *Excitatory catatonia* - Characterized by **psychomotor agitation**, restlessness, and sometimes violent behavior, which is contrary to the reduced reactivity seen in the patient. - Patients with excitatory catatonia may present with **purposeless motor activity** and impulsivity, along with other catatonic features. *Paranoid schizophrenia* - Primarily defined by prominent **delusions of persecution** or grandeur and **auditory hallucinations**. - While catatonic features can sometimes occur in schizophrenia, they are not the hallmark symptoms; the described features are more directly indicative of catatonia itself. *None of the options* - This is incorrect because the constellation of symptoms (waxy flexibility, negativism, rigidity) clearly points to a specific and well-recognized clinical syndrome, which is stuporous catatonia. - The symptoms provided are classic for a recognized psychiatric condition, making an "all of the above" or "none of the above" option unlikely if a specific diagnosis fits perfectly.
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