How We Can Help > Family Matters > Hogg Foundation / Defiant Child > Defiant Child FAQs

Defiant Child FAQs

1. What is the Defiant Child Program?
   The Defiant Child Program is an evidence based parenting model that is most effective when implemented with parents who have children that have been diagnosed with Attention Deficit/ Hyperactivity Disorder (AD/HD), Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD), or who are displaying behaviors associated with these disorders.
2. What is an evidence based program?
   Evidence programs and practices are therapeutic interventions that have been researched and proven to be effective when used with to address a specific problem or concern.
3. What ages does the program target?
   The program is most effective when used with children who are between the ages of 2 and 12 years old.
4. What are service options for individuals that do not meet the specific eligibility requirements for the program?
   If a child or youth does not meet the eligibility requirements for the Defiant Child Program efforts will be made to identify another program within Lena Pope Home that may meet the needs of the child and family. It is possible that the child and their family be referred to Family Matters Counseling, Parenting with Love and Limits, or another program offered through the agency.
5. What is the cost of the program?
   Services provided through the Defiant Child Program are free. Services are funded by the University of Texas- Austin and the Hogg Foundation for Mental Health.
6. What is the length of the program?
   The Defiant Child Program is a 12 step model. This includes a comprehensive initial assessment, nine weekly steps, and two follow up visits. If the program is implemented as designed services could be provided for 3-4 months.
7. What behaviors are associated with AD/HD and ODD?
   Some of the behaviors a child with AD/HD may display are:
   • Trouble paying attention
   • Easily distracted
   • Trouble following instructions
   • Interrupts or intrudes on others
   • Has a difficult time sitting still
   • Talks excessively
   Some of the behaviors that a child with ODD may display are:
   • Often loses temper
   • Argue with adults
   • Blames other for their behavior or mistakes
   • Refuses to comply with the rules or request of adults
   • Deliberately annoys others
8. Does the child have to already be diagnosed as AD/HD or ODD?
   No. Every child that is referred to the program is assessed to determine whether or not the child has AD/HD, ODD, or some other childhood disorder. This assessment is apart of the program and is provided at no cost to the family.
9. Are psychiatric services available?
   Yes. Psychiatric services are provided by consulting child and adolescent psychiatrist Dr. Anthony Machi. This service is available while the child is enrolled in the Defiant Child Program. Prior to terminating services with the Defiant Child Program LPH staff will work with the family to ensure that they are connected with another mental health provider to ensure continuity of care.
10. Where are services provided?
    Services offered through the Defiant Child Program are provided in the family’s home. However, the program has been implemented in the office and other locations that are convenient for the family.