Obstinate Behavior

I am wondering if my 5 year old son might need medication for his behavior. He has a very strong will, is obstinate and argumentitive. He questions everything. He is very bright and has a vivid imagination. Talks incessantly, is very sensitive, can be made to cry at the drop of a hat. He doesnt respond to virtually any type of discipline: time-out, spanking, removal of priviliges. Could this be an example of a Defiant Behavior Disorder? I am hesitant to start meds, but he is so unmanageable that I am beginning to resent him. Please give any suggestions.
Thanks
AMY

[Kevin Kennedy, Ph.D.]

Dear Amy,

There's no indication at this point that your son needs to be prescribed medication. Children with such a profile tend to respond to non-pharmacological interventions, including systematic behavioral plans, dietary changes, adjustments in parent/child communication, etc.

Have you sought any professional intervention? If not, begin with a visit to the pediatrician and consider a referral to child mental health. This can not only clarify the diagnostic picture, but assist with the approaches you are utilizing at home. Hold medication in abeyance while you attempt other organized plans for intervention.