Episode Details

A child explodes over a video game, a simple correction at school, or being told no. Is it defiance, bad behavior, bipolar disorder—or something else?

In this episode of Off the Couch Psychology Podcast, you'll learn about Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder, or DMDD, a childhood mood disorder involving chronic irritability and severe, recurring emotional outbursts. You'll hear how DMDD can show up at home, school, and in the community, and why the disorder is often misunderstood.

You'll also learn the important difference between DMDD and bipolar disorder, what may be happening in the brain, and why simply telling a child to "calm down" usually works about as well as telling a tornado to please respect the property line.

Most importantly, you'll discover what can actually help, including CBT, DBT, parent training, school accommodations, lifestyle changes, and medication when appropriate.

Key Takeaways

• Recognize the major signs of DMDD.

• Understand how DMDD differs from bipolar disorder.

• See how chronic irritability affects daily life.

• Learn why emotional regulation skills matter.

• Explore treatment and school support options.

• Understand why progress may happen in small steps.

Learn more about Dr. Jerry Cunningham and the podcasts, books, and other resources at Quest-Success.com.

Suggested Reading & Resources

• National Institute of Mental Health: Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder — A clear overview of DMDD symptoms and treatment. (National Institute of Mental Health)

• American Psychiatric Association: DMDD Fact Sheet — Background on the diagnosis and diagnostic features. (American Psychiatric Association)

• The Explosive Child by Ross W. Greene, PhD — A practical approach to understanding chronically frustrated and inflexible children. (HarperCollins)

• Review of the Clinical Approach to DMDD Treatment — A clinical review of assessment and treatment approaches. (PubMed)

• Treatment Options for the Cardinal Symptoms of DMDD — A review of treatment options for severe irritability and temper outbursts. (PMC)

Mentioned in This Episode

#TheExplosiveChild #RossGreene #WeNeedToTalkAboutKevin #DMDD