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What follows is a chapter by chapter description of the book.
Chapter Two: Anatomy of Conflict. Essential to the understanding of oppositional and defiant disorder in children and adolescents, this chapter looks at the needs of the individual as they relate to the ability to set and work toward goals. Feelings are introduced as the vehicle individuals use to address their needs, a problem area for many youngsters.
Chapter Three: To Care, But to Control. Caring and control, as they influence and perpetuate oppositional and defiant behavior, are considered. Fifteen of the most common oppositional and defiant behaviors are included, which are then contrasted with those behaviors that would be considered "normal."
Chapter Four: The "Good Kid" Disorder. Dr. Sutton introduces what he terms the "Good Kid" Disorder. Using a model called the "Progression of Deviancy," this disorder is contrasted to the much more serious Conduct Disorder.
Chapter Five: Victory by Default. This chapter presents seven No-lutions, things that parents and teachers typically do to deal with the oppositional and defiant child. These No-lutions all have one thing in common: they don't work!
Chapter Six: Trouble Under the Table. Why is it that some youngsters find it difficult to talk about things that trouble them? This chapter answers this question, offering clues into the "why" of oppositional and defiant behavior.
Chapter Seven: The Quick Fix. Behavioral change can occur quickly; but it does require that the adults involved pay attention to at least four critical things. It doesn't often work out this well, but Luke's story is real; this chapter tells the story.
Chapter Eight: Expectations. With the help of some powerful Venn diagrams, this chapter discusses excessive expectations as they can ultimately bring out oppositional and defiant behavior. The chapter concludes with four powerful questions that relate to change and healing.
Chapter Nine: Three Reasons Why. This chapter suggests that persistent oppositional and defiant behavior in young people is usually attributable to one of three reasons: the disposition of the child; excessive expectations; or some sort of emotional or psychological distress.
Chapter Ten: ADD and Other Things. A variety of other conditions and disorders that can be associated with or confused with oppositional and defiant behaviors are covered in this chapter. It includes the results of some interesting studies on the comorbidity between ADD and ODD.
Chapter Eleven: All in the Way You Look at It. The connection between a youngster's perspectives and behaviors is explained. Keys to changing behavior by altering perspectives are then presented.
Chapter Twelve: Fair, Reasonable, and a Little Fun. Some adults always seem to be able to dodge the barbs and step over and around the traps that these youngsters set for them. This chapter teaches how qualities of fairness, reasonableness, and spontaneity in an adult can pay off in big ways.
Chapter Thirteen: Reduce and Raise. The most effective ways of minimizing struggles with oppositional and defiant youngsters come through a simple formula the author calls "Reduce and Raise." This chapter explains the formula, and also addresses the issue of healthy detachment.
Chapter Fourteen: Choices. This chapter explains how offering choices to the child (whenever possible) can greatly reduce oppositional and defiant behavior. Seven specific types of choices are discussed, with plenty of examples of each.
Chapter Fifteen: Spit in the Soup. Certain provocative behaviors on the part of the adult can have an interesting effect on the youngster. The "how" and "why" of these "Spit in the Soup" behaviors are discussed.
Chapter Sixteen: School. It's no coincidence that this is the longest and most extensive chapter in the book. Compliance at school is a critical issue because it can severely affect progress. Many interventions for task completion are provided. This chapter even includes seven tips for an ideal parent-teacher conference.
Chapter Seventeen: Growth Moves Toward the Future. If everything goes well, there will come a time when a youngster's contribution to the relationship will no longer be fueled and maintained by fear, resentment, anger, spite, and revenge. Suggestions are offered for helping these youngsters recognize their accomplishments, express healthy gratitude to others, and engage in the active process of goal-setting.
Glossary, References, and Index
"Practical ideas that really work."--Pat Zimmerman, fifth-grade teacher, Grantsville, Kansas
"Without question, this book shows extensive experience and hard work along with a lot of dedication to working with frustrated parents and frustrating kids."--Dr. Miquela Rivera, clinical psychologist, Albuquerque, New Mexico
"Based on my fourteen years of conducting psychotherapy with children and adolescents in south Texas hospitals and private practice, I find this book extremely appropriate for counselors, teachers, and parents. Dr. Sutton's manner of transferring his practical insights to the reader is remarkable."--Dr. John H. Koiner, psychotherapist, San Antonio, Texas
"Dr. Sutton's emphasis on building positive relationships with oppositional and defiant students is fundamental to helping them attain school success."--Jane Bieri, SED Teacher (Emotional Disorders), Minot, North Dakota
"We are already trying to put into practice some (no, many) of your suggestions. Thanks again for your words of encouragement and understanding."--A relieved father in Omaha, Nebraska (name withheld for the daughter's sake)
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