There is controversy within the medical, autism, and neurodiverse communities about the validity of PDA.
Neurotypical people have a “normal” brain and behave in ways society expects.
Anyone who is diagnosed with autism is neurodivergent.
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Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA): A Trait of Autism?
Ultimately, though, there is a real lack of research on PDA.
ADHD
There are anecdotal reports that PDA is associated withADHD.
They use social strategiessuch as negotiation, distraction, manipulation, role play, and refusalto avoid demands.
This results in high anxiety levels, making them feel “frozen” and unable to comply.
How PDA Feels
For the demanding party, avoidance can seem frustrating, illogical, or vindictive.
For this, it is helpful to hear directly from individuals who identify as having PDA.
Instead, experts recommend adopting a “low demand, low arousal” approach to parenting and discipline.
Many of the strategies listed above will remain helpful in responding to adults with PDA.
Attending therapy with a PDA-informed professional, such asacceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), can also help.
The PDA Society provides guidance and information sheets for professionals who want to learn more about the PDA profile.
It is challenging to receive an official diagnosis because it is not an officially recognized condition.
National Autistic Society.PDAa guide for autistic adults.
Harvard Health Publishing.What is neurodiversity?
2021;25(8):2162-2176. doi: 10.1177/13623613211034382
PDA Society.Identifying and assessing PDA.
2020;30(12):411-415. doi:10.1016/j.paed.2020.09.002
PDA Society.What is demand avoidance?
PDA Society.How PDA can feel.
PDA Society.Self-help, coping strategies, and therapies for adult PDAers.
PDA Society.Working with PDA.
