ABC Medical Center > Diseases > Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder

What is disruptive mood dysregulation disorder?

11 December 2025

It is a mental health condition in which children or adolescents have frequent and intense reactions of anger and irritability, as well as frequent low moods, damaging their relationships with other children, their school performance, and their family environment.

Children with Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder (DMDD) are often more prone to suffering from other mental disorders and require medical attention more frequently.

It usually manifests between six and 10 years of age, sometimes continuing into adulthood, with males being the most affected, as are boys and girls with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).

The causes of Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder are unknown, but clinical studies point to a combination of genetic and environmental factors, such as abuse, mistreatment, domestic violence, or traumatic situations.

Symptoms: Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder

  • Intense and continuous emotional outbursts, either behavioral or verbal, at least three or four times a week.
  • Isolation.
  • Persistent tantrums.
  • Difficulty concentrating.
  • Anger most of the time.
  • Hyperactivity.
  • Irritability.
  • Behavioral problems at home and school.
  • Problems with peers and teachers.
  • Angry reactions.

Among the risks and complications that Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder can trigger in adulthood are:

  • Anxiety.
  • Bipolar disorder.
  • Suicidal behaviors.
  • Depression.

Diagnosis and Treatment: Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder

The specialist doctor will analyze the minor’s symptoms and clinical history, then perform a physical examination and, if deemed necessary, a series of psychological studies to help confirm the diagnosis and rule out other diseases.

The treatment for Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder is determined based on the child’s needs and their family environment, including the following:

  • Antidepressants.
  • Psychotherapy.
  • Parent training/therapy.

At the Neurological Center, a group of highly trained and certified doctors in various neurological specialties are prepared to treat you with the quality and warmth that characterizes us.

Related centers and departments Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder

Fuentes:

  • chilmind.org
  • taadas.org
  • kaiserpermanente.org
  • psiquiatria.com
  • elsevier.es
  • mayoclinic.org
  • medlineplus.gov
  • medigraphic.com

How can we help you?

    The dissemination of the content of this material is for informational purposes only and does not replace, under any circumstance or condition, a consultation with a specialist doctor, for which the ABC Medical Center is not responsible for the different use that may be given to it. If you require more information related to the subject, we suggest you contact the specialist doctor you trust directly.