Symptom Tests for Adults

[Self-Test] Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) in Adults

Adults with oppositional defiant disorder 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 in adults.

By ADDitude Editors Verified Medically reviewed by Roberto Olivardia, Ph.D. Updated on January 21, 2023
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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)

My friends tell me I have very bad road rage. 

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.

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

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

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

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

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

My spouse and I argue.

Anger is the emotion I identify with most.

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

Office rules are unfair and oppressive.

I feel like no one likes me. 

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

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

I’ve had a problem with substance abuse. 

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

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

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


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Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) in Adults: Next Steps

1. Take This Test: Generalized Anxiety Disorder in Adults
2. Take This Test: Bipolar Disorder in Adults
3. Read Why Am I So Angry All the Time?
4. Take This Test: Autism in Adults
5. Take This Test: OCD in Adults
6. Research Treatments for Oppositional Defiant Disorder
7. Find: Specialists or Clinics Near You