Question

Nine-year-old Hector is repeatedly argumentative and defiant, angry and irritable, and, in some cases, vindictive. He argues with every request and rule his parents attempt to enforce. He is irritated by requests to clean up his room or do his homework. Many times he is openly rebellious toward his teachers. Hector can be diagnosed with:

Answer 1

Nine-year-old Hector exhibits behaviors that may suggest Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD), a condition characterized by persistent argumentative and defiant behavior. To confirm a diagnosis of ODD, a mental health professional's assessment is needed to rule out other mental disorders and ensure these behaviors have been consistent for at least six months.

Step-by-step explanation:

Oppositional Defiant Disorder:

Nine-year-old Hector's behavior, characterized by being argumentative and defiant, angry and irritable, and sometimes vindictive, can be indicative of Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD). ODD is a behavioral condition that involves a pattern of uncooperative, defiant, and hostile behavior toward authority figures that goes beyond the bounds of normal childhood behavior.

Children with ODD may experience significant impairment in social, educational, or vocational activities. They may deliberately irritate others, blame others for their mistakes, and have frequent temper tantrums. Hector's reluctance to follow rules, perform chores like cleaning his room or doing homework, and rebellion towards his teachers could lead to such a diagnosis.