DSM-5 description:
A pattern of angry/irritable mood, argumentative/defiant behavior, or vindictiveness lasting at least 6 months as evidenced by at least four symptoms from any of the following categories, and exhibited during interaction with at least one individual who is not a sibling.
Category A - Angry/Irritable Mood
- Often loses temper
- Is often touchy or easily annoyed
- Is often angry and resentful
Category B - Argumentative/Defiant Behavior
- Often argues with authority figures or, for children and adolescents, with adults
- Often actively defies or refuses to comply with request from authority figures or with rules
- Often deliberately annoys others
- Often blames others for his or her mistakes or misbehavior
Category C - Vindictiveness
- Has been spiteful or vindictive at least twice within the past 6 months
Note: The persistence and frequency of these behaviors should be used to distinguish a behavior that is within normal limits from a behavior that is symptomatic. For children younger than 5 years, the behavior should occur on most days for a period of at least 6 months unless otherwise noted (Criterion A8). For individuals 5 years or older, the behavior should occur at least once per week for at least 6 months, unless otherwise noted (Criterion A8). While these frequency criteria provide guidance on a minimal level of frequency to define symptoms, other factors should also be considered, such as whether the frequency and intensity of the behaviors are outside a range that is normative for the individual's developmental level, gender, and culture.
The disturbance in behavior is associated with distress in the individual or others in his or her immediate social context, or it impacts negatively on social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning.
The behaviors do not occur exclusively during the course of a psychotic, substance use, depressive, or bipolar disorder. Also, the criteria or not met for disruptive mood dysregulation disorder.
Severity
Mild: symptoms are confined to only one setting
Moderate: Some symptoms are present in at least two settings
Severe: Some symptoms are present in three or more settings