Results of genetic studies have found that people with DBD’s have structural abnormalities on the D4 receptor which result in disruptions in the encoding of the gene. This often leads to abuse of methamphetamines to seek the feeling of reward. 

Results of Genetic Studies



Research states that lower activity in the brain’s dopaminergic systems result in decreased reward processing and result in a lack in motivation to obtain the feeling of reward. 


Arizona State University

- Autonomic Nervous System: heart functioning
- Brain Areas elated to Reward Processing: amygdala and orbitofrontal cortex
- Neurotransmitters: dopaminergic systems


Ways Reward Processing Sensitivty is Measured in People With ODD


Matthys, Vanderschuren, L. J. M. J., & Schutter, D. J. L. G. (2013). The neurobiology of oppositional defiant disorder and conduct disorder: Altered functioning in three mental domains. Development and Psychopathology, 25(1), 193–207. https://doi.org/10.1017/S0954579412000272

The neurobiology of oppositional defiant disorder and conduct disorder: Altered functioning in three mental domains

The amygdala plays a role in the experience of positive emotions and the determination of the appeal of stimuli. Since people with ODD have a dysfunctioning amygdala, they require increased levels of stimulation to experience positive emotions and interest/appeal. 


ODD: the amygdala and reward processing

- Pre-ejection period (PEP)
- Heart rate (HR)


 ODD: reward processing is measured through various ANS responses


People with ODD have dysfunctional dopaminergic systems 


Research indicates that deficiencies in reward sensitivity in DBD’s are partially influenced by deficits in the orbitofrontal cortex because it disrupts stimulus-response learning and processing.  This results in response perserveration.


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