Autistic kids who fit the PDA profile have an extreme avoidance to life’s daily demands. The use of pathological demand avoidance as a diagnosis has, at times, led to altered referral practice and misunderstandings between professionals and the families of patients. In the United States and Canada, PDA is still emerging and not widely diagnosed by professionals due to lack of awareness. This page is designed to guide you through the diagnostic pathway for adults in England and the various options available. Jul 3, 2024 · When it comes to understanding PDA (Pathological Demand Avoidance) autism, it is important to recognize the key characteristics that differentiate it from other forms of autism. That's the big mistake me (PDA) and my partner make is we still try to solve things while we're both fragile/triggered. ‘PathologicalDemandAvoidance’(PDA)maybe oneexplanation. Feb 2, 2016 · There is growing awareness across the UK of pupils with a PDA profile. , 2003). While it Understanding Pathological Demand Avoidance Autism. Whilst autism is a well-recognised term, our understanding of the full breadth and complexity of the autism spectrum is still evolving. This type of signposting is important as it highlights the need for the use of helpful approaches by professionals and If they aren't calm, disregulated, and you aren't either, you need to self-sooth independently, then come together and work together when both regulated. Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) is a profile that falls under the umbrella of Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC). Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) is one type of Autism Spectrum Condition. It was first identified by Elizabeth Newson in the 1980s and has gained recognition as a valid diagnostic category in recent years. The PDA Society offers a suite of training options for PDA people, parents, carers and professionals which we deliver both directly and on behalf of other organisations. There is an opportunity to learn from workshop participants, as well as the trainers. Jan 9, 2024 · PDA is generally considered a profile on the autism spectrum, but some individuals may exhibit PDA-like behaviors without a formal autism diagnosis. 1 Origins of the term ‘Pathological Demand Avoidance’ The concept of PDA was first discussed in the 1980s by the psychologist Professor Elizabeth Newson OBE when she was assessing children for autism at her Nottingham clinic. PDA individuals share autistic characteristics and in addition have many of the ‘key features’ of a PDA profile: resisting and avoiding personalised,thusimprovingoutcomes. It was first recognized in the 1980s by Elizabeth Newson as part of Pathological Demand Avoidance Syndrome. Diagnosing PDA - Adults You may be wondering whether a PDA profile of autism is a good fit for you or someone you know. 5. However, an increasing number of individuals identifying with this profile are beginning to use “Pervasive Drive for Autonomy” instead (coined by Tomlin Wilding), better capturing the underlying core need. PDA (Pathological Demand Avoidance) is an autistic profile that involves extreme avoidance of everyday activities due to anxiety. Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) Autism is a unique profile within the autism spectrum that is characterized by an extreme avoidance of everyday demands and an anxiety-driven need for control. " PDA is a unique profile because individuals can appear to have better social understanding and communication skills than other autistic people. It’s characterized by an extreme avoidance of everyday demands and requests, which can often lead to significant challenges for children and their caregivers. A clinician might describe a person as having a demand-avoidant profile, or pathological demand avoidance (PDA), if they are driven to excessively avoid demands and expectations. Asher Jenner is 19 years old and autistic with a PDA profile. PDA has become increasingly widely used by some clinicians, teachers and parents in the United Kingdom and has come to arouse strong Local and national campaigns consistently demonstrate the failure of services to meet the needs of individuals with a PDA profile of Autism. While many people are familiar with the traditional understanding of autism, there is a lesser-known profile called the Pathological Demand Avoidance OR Pervasive Drive for Autonomy (PDA) profile. May benefit from structure and routine. The assessment process for autism is evolving, with a shift towards understanding subjective experience rather than relying solely on test scores. PDA (Pathological Demand Avoidance) is a profile on the autism spectrum, characterised by children who avoid the demands and expectations of everyday life to an extreme extent. The anxiety curve model is a really helpful way to understand anxiety and echoes the hierarchy of demand avoidance approaches seen in a PDA profile of autism. PDAers find external demands to be incredibly stressful and as a result The PDA profile describes one way in which autism can present. Dec 6, 2019 · 15 Life Hacks for PDA (Pathological Demand Avoidance) By differentnotdeficient. EHCP guide. The concept of pathological demand avoidance has been criticised for undermining the self-advocacy of autistic people and neglecting the potential role of anxiety as a possible underlying or Learn about Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA), a specific profile within the Autism spectrum, where individuals resist demands that challenge their autonomy. People with this profile: Are more likely to be female PDA is a profile of autism Whilst autism is a well-recognised term, our understanding of the full breadth and complexity of the autism spectrum is still evolving. Understanding the Pathological Demand Avoidance Profile of the Autism Spectrum, was originally held on Thursday, March 17th at 1PM EDT. This section will provide an introduction to PDA Autism and explore its key characteristics and symptoms. The PDA Society is the only specialist PDA charity in the UK. That’s all waiting for you on episode 216. Self-help, coping strategies and therapies for adult PDAers. Academic research focuses on learning more about the characteristics and causes of this autism profile, and also provides clinicians with information, protocols and surety around diagnostic traits. This section will provide an overview of what PDA Autism is and highlight its key characteristics. In place of structure, routine, firm boundaries, praise, rewards/consequences, is a person-centred approach based on negotiation, collaboration and flexibility. • Surface level social skills. PDA presents unique challenges and has a distinct impact on everyday life for Most experts agree that PDA is a subtype or profile of autism. Also known as Extreme Demand Avoidance, PDA commonly presents as highly anxious behaviour and a need for control, especially in unpredictable situations. [4] The original EDA-Q for children showed good sensitivity and specificity for the construct, and had an internal reliability ( Cronbach’s alpha) of 0. Feb 28, 2020 · In order to plug this diagnostic gap, a growing number of private providers have emerged who are willing to offer a diagnosis of autism with a PDA profile but that can cost anywhere between £1000 and £3500 10 – an example of the commodification of autism and the growth of the autism industry, which like all industries function to ‘create Nov 24, 2023 · That's the PDA profile of autism for you. A demand is implied whenever someone is made or expected to do something, and when requests, reminders, and prompts are used in a way A PDA profile of autism means that individuals share autistic characteristics … persistent difficulties with social communication and social interaction,” and, “restricted and repetitive patterns of behavior, activities or interests,” present since early childhood to the extent that these, “limit and impair everyday functioning,” (according to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual May 24, 2024 · Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) is a profile of autism where people avoid daily demands, often utilizing ‘social’ strategies to do this. Nov 1, 2023 · PDA Society training. 2. However, PDAers tend to have a more subtle presentation of autistic characteristics and are often highly social. PDA children seem especially adept at “masking” or hiding their Autism, making diagnosis a challenge. Apr 1, 2024 · We have noted that core aspects of the EDA or PDA profile occur in subgroups within a broader spectrum of neurodevelopmental, neurological, and psychiatric conditions, rather than in those who specifically meet criteria for autism, oppositional defiant disorder, ADHD, or developmental coordination disorder. Although PDA is not (currently) a category for diagnosis in the U. Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is an effective, evidence-based therapy approach used with autism spectrum disorder, and given that PDA is strongly correlated to ASD, it could also be a useful form of treatment PDA Profile in Autism is a distinct profile within the autism spectrum that stands for Pathological Demand Avoidance. This video gives a really quick introduction to PDA and explains all of its key features. PDA (Pathological Demand Avoidance) is widely understood to be a profile on the autism spectrum, involving the avoidance of everyday demands and the use of ‘social’ strategies as part of this avoidance. They may refuse, withdraw, ‘shutdown’ or escape in order to avoid these Feb 7, 2021 · Pathological Demand Avoidance is not a stand alone diagnosis. We offer a range of CPD accredited courses for professionals, which are marked with the CPD certified logo. PDA, sometimes still called Pathological Demand Avoidance but moving towards the more neurodiversity-affirming Pervasive Demand Avoidance or the even better Persistent Drive for Autonomy, is thought to be a common sub-type or profile of autism. Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) is a behavior profile within the autism spectrum that is characterized by an extreme avoidance of everyday demands and expectations. Feb 7, 2024 · Understanding Pathological Demand Avoidance. This guide delves into the nature of PDA, its history, causes, signs, and how it differs from other forms of autism, with insights into effective treatments and the Feb 15, 2023 · Our research into ‘parental blame and the PDA profile of autism’ was born from our combined personal experiences. Individuals with PDA autism often exhibit high levels of anxiety and struggle with controlling their own behavior. The low demand lifestyle autism approach can result in higher levels of engagement and motivation compared to direct praise or rewards, which may not effectively resonate with children who have the autism PDA profile. Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) is a behavior profile believed to be part of the autism spectrum. Using Role Play as a Coping Strategy and Identity. PDA is commonly recognised as a profile of autism. The underlying cause for this avoidance is said to be a high level of anxiety, usually from expectations of demands being placed on them, which can lead to a feeling of not being in control of a situation. Learn about demand avoidance, a characteristic of some autistic people, and how it impacts their daily life. Editor’s update from Terra Vance and Richard Woods on The Aspergian’s position on PDA: There is debate about the existence of pathological demand avoidance (PDA) and whether or not it is an autistic profile. This includes social communication difficulties, restrictive and repetitive behaviors, and sensory processing It has been characterised as the key characteristic of a proposed condition or profile of autism called Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA), although this is a controversial label that is not recognised clinically (meaning it is not included in medical manuals) and is contested within the autism community. An Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) is a document used in England to outline a child or young person’s special educational needs (SEN) and the provision that should be made to meet those needs. This figure is much higher than for the Autistic Jul 10, 2024 · It’s called pathological when the avoidance is extreme and interferes with functioning at home or at school. When it comes to autism, there are various profiles that individuals may exhibit. Learning about PDA was far more impactful for me than my autism diagnosis as it made sooo much more sense about my experience. Building Trust and Connection. Jun 29, 2024 · PDA stands for Pathological Demand Avoidance, which is a profile within the broader autism spectrum. Jan 12, 2024 · Pathological demand avoidance (PDA) — sometimes also called extreme demand avoidance (EDA) — is a proposed subtype of autism. However, there is no universal agreement on how PDA fits with autism. For further information, please contact our The PDA profile in autism refers to a specific subtype of autism characterized by an extreme, pervasive need to avoid and resist everyday demands. If you have PDA, you may find it challenging to carry out demands, even if you want to. Young people who are transitioning to employment may also find this Ambitious about Autism transition to employment toolkit helpful. 44 min. PDAers (sometimes called ‘people with a PDA profile’ by professionals) experience intense emotions and mood swings and find everyday activities difficult, often feeling a need to avoid them. When someone asks if you want to do something, your automatic answer is probably no, even if it's something that you actually want to do. We desperately wanted to do something about it and so our project Information, training and support for PDA people, parents & carers, and professionals. Indirect ways of wording requests, or even silence, helps with completing tasks. Generally, the term refers to a distinct profile of behaviors and traits in individuals often experiencing PDA symptoms. Underpinning this avoidance is an extremely high level of anxiety about conforming to social demands and of not being in control of the situation. Building Pathological Demand Avoidance relationships is a journey marked by trust and connection. You see, we have both been subjected to misaligned scrutiny and blame by our respective local authorities, in respect of our children’s autistic presentations. The PDA profile turns care on its head and lack of understanding causes distress. Individuals with the PDA profile often exhibit a high level of anxiety and struggle with the traditional strategies used for managing autism. It's recognized as an extreme avoidance of everyday activities due to heightened anxiety. by The Special Needs Companies. This figure is much higher than for the ASD population as a whole, and shows how challenging school can be with PDA. It is distinguished from Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) and attachment disorders because it is specifically associated with Autism and high levels of anxiety. What is the difference between PDA and ODD? PDA is an autism spectrum profile characterized by demand avoidance driven by anxiety, while ODD involves a pattern of defiant, disobedient, and hostile Sep 22, 2023 · Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) is a relatively new term in the field of developmental disorders, and the PDA meaning can be confusing for many. I hope hearing my real-life examples of the PDA PANDA support strategies has given you a few ideas for tailoring these Dec 1, 2020 · The EDA-QA is a 26 -item self-report adaptation of the observer-rated Extreme Demand Avoidance Questionnaire ( EDA-Q ) for use with adult populations. We’ve promised to update the May 23, 2024 · In the study of parent-reported behaviours in children and adolescents, for children aged 5 to 11 a score of 50 and over, and for children aged 12 to 17 a score of 45 and over, indicated an elevated risk of parents reporting that the child had been clinically identified as having a profile resembling PDA. People with PDA often have a strong need for control and may struggle with anxiety and social interactions. It is a non-violent, non-behavioral approach to supporting children with PDA. In our Viewpoint, we reviewed the current literature and conclude Conventional support strategies, including those often recommended for autism, are often ineffective and counter-productive with a PDA profile of autism. Therapists are adapting by relying less on formal tests and more on Jan 22, 2024 · Pathological Avoidance of Demand (PDA) is a developmental disorder that is different from autism which falls within the spectrum. It is characterized by an extreme avoidance of everyday demands, which can lead to high levels of anxiety and difficulties in managing daily life. Aug 28, 2023 · Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) is a profile associated with autism and ADHD. December 6, 2019. Description: Experiences of the PDA Profile of Autism. Misdiagnosis Pathological (or extreme) demand avoidance is a term sometimes applied to complex behaviours in children within—or beyond—autism spectrum disorder. Feb 8, 2023 · The PDA Profile of Autism. Yes it is possible to obtain a diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) with a PDA profile in Australia, BUT you will need to find a PDA aware specialist in order to do so. Oct 8, 2013 · ‘Pathological Demand Avoidance’ (PDA) is a term coined by Newson et al. By understanding the unique characteristics of PDA, clinicians can tailor interventions to address the specific needs and challenges of individuals with this profile. PDA is a newly emerging profile that falls under the autism spectrum. This is about the parenting experience of raising young children with the Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) profile of Autism. Takeaways. May 5, 2024 · However, clinicians and professionals in the field of autism recognize PDA as a valid and distinct profile within the broader spectrum of ASD. Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) is a complex behavioral profile that falls under the umbrella of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Not every PDA child or young person will have, or What Is Autism PDA? To provide meaningful support to autistic individuals with PDA, it is crucial to understand the distinct characteristics that define this unique profile. Our Being Misunderstood report highlights that 70% of children with a PDA profile of autism are not in school or regularly struggle to attend. Description: Education, Health and Care Plans to support a PDA profile of autism. Pathological (or extreme) demand avoidance refers to a set of characteristics that can co-occur with autism and is recognised as a behavioural profile within autism. Mar 22, 2023 · Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) is a term that has historically been used to describe a profile of autism. The lost years of a young software engineer by Frank Ray, The Autistic Engineer is a story about discovering the workplace adjustments necessary for an autistic software engineer with a PDA profile to thrive. Find out the history, characteristics, and challenges of PDA, and how to support individuals with this profile. May 5, 2022 · What may seem as aggressive emotional outbursts or a personal attack can in fact be the opposite; a manifestation of anxiety and worry about a loved one or important event. Resources, help and a community to parents of children with severe behavioral challenges. • PDA is not the same as other disorders. Supplementary terminology such as a ‘PDA profile’ or ‘characterised by extreme demand avoidance’ are widely used. What is PDA? New to the United States, Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) Syndrome is a small, distinct profile of autism characterized by avoiding demands and expectations due to an anxiety-based need for control. Children with PDA are driven to extreme measures to avoid everyday demands and expectations[1]. Sensory sensitivities and repetitive behaviors. This page is for families and includes information on: specialist SEN Pathological Demand Avoidance is a condition associated with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). An introductory video about PDA (Pathological Demand Avoidance)This video is just over 20 minutes long and covers lots of information, including:What is dema Autistic demand avoidance. But it’s better understood as a result of anxiety Understanding PDA Profile in Autism. A resource hub for parents and professionals to learn more about PDA, with access to training and events. People on the autism spectrum have difficulties with social interaction, social communication and restricted or repetitive patterns of behaviour or interests. If you suspect that you or someone you know has PDA, there are many things you can do to help them get unstuck and moving forward. Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) is best understood as a profile on the autism spectrum – for more information please see About autism & PDA. One such profile is the Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) profile, which presents unique characteristics and challenges. People who fit into the PDA profile struggle to comply with demands. People with the PDA profile share one main characteristic; their avoidance of the everyday demands made by Jul 15, 2023 · Autism, a neurodevelopmental disorder, is a broad spectrum condition that affects individuals in diverse ways. The PDA profile is a specific subtype of autism that is characterized by an extreme avoidance and resistance to everyday demands and expectations. Our goal is to try and make life better for PDA people and their families – we believe that happy, autonomous lives are PDA autism, also known as Pathological Demand Avoidance syndrome, is a profile of autism that is characterized by an extreme avoidance of everyday demands and expectations. Jun 29, 2024 · PDA, or Pathological Demand Avoidance, is a profile of autism that was first identified by Elizabeth Newson in the 1980s. Episode 7 - Discussing PDA with Friends, Family, and Our Children. There is an emerging awareness of a distinct profile of autism currently termed Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA). This section includes information and resources for PDA adults that were developed with PDA adults, including first-hand experiences of life, self-help tips and workplace adjustments along with information about diagnosis and support. Jul 5, 2024 · Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) is a relatively little-known profile that describes a subset of people with autism spectrum disorder that can greatly impact the daily lives of those who have it. Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) is a profile that matches a subset of people on the autism spectrum characterized by an overwhelming need to maintain control over situations and resist demands. [5] Mar 14, 2024 · They also discuss the PDA profile and its place within the autism spectrum. Just like the 3-hour course, you will have access for 60 days to the presentation. Children with pathological demand avoidance have the same challenges as others with ASD. Jun 29, 2024 · Within the autism spectrum, the PDA profile is a distinct subgroup characterized by an extreme avoidance of everyday demands, leading to high levels of anxiety and difficulties in social interaction. PDA was first identified by Elizabeth Newson in the 1980s and has since gained recognition as a unique profile within autism. We are a small team, and all of us have a personal connection with PDA. Apr 12, 2022 · Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) is a particular profile characterising a small minority of autistic children. All the helpful approaches explained below are designed to help our children remain on the ‘lower slopes’ of the anxiety curve and avoid escalation where possible. Being Misunderstood – 2018 Survey. It is a pervasive developmental condition (meaning autism affects all developmental areas) and was first described in 2003 by Elizabeth Newson, although it is not yet known in many methods used to diagnose autism. Unfortunately such specialists are rare. These suggestions for self-help, coping strategies and therapies were assembled from a variety of first-hand accounts shared by adults, diagnosed or self-identifying as having a PDA profile (PDAers being their preferred term of reference), in books, blogs and on social media and from the other information for adults on the PDA Mar 22, 2021 · The PDA PANDA support strategies of picking battles, anxiety management, negotiation and collaboration, disguising and managing demands, and adaptation are the most helpful approaches for the PDA behavioural profile of Autism. While individuals on the autism spectrum may exhibit a wide range of traits, those with PDA may display the following defining autism PDA symptoms: Introducing Pathological Demand Avoidance. In addition to our 3-hour course we are delighted to be able to include a 15-minute presentation by Asher Jenner. In fact, many PDAers have a special interest in other people, psychology, sociology, or specific people. Please use the buttons below to explore the different topics and resources in this section. The PDA profile differs from typical autism traits, and the extreme avoidance Jun 29, 2024 · Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) PDA Autism. It affects both adults and children. PDA North America is a non-profit organization that provides information, training and community for PDA individuals, families and professionals. Adult life with PDA. It is an Autism Behavioural Profile. PDA is also frequently misdiagnosed as Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) or Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder (ADHD). While the intention is clear, there is a group of autistic people whose needs are frequently not identified in detail, not understood in practice and not Also it’s important to note that terminologies used post-assessment can vary by region and by professional, some using 'Autism with a PDA profile', 'Autism with PDA traits', or ‘Pathological Demand Avoidance Syndrome’, while others might simply describe demand avoidance characteristics within the report accompanying an autism diagnosis. Jun 7, 2022 · The link between PDA and autism. Find out what it is, why it happens, how to identify and support it, and the debate about the PDA label. Individuals with the PDA profile often exhibit a high need for control and struggle with traditional approaches to managing their behavior. This often misunderstood profile leaves parents Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) is a term used to describe a particular profile of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) that is characterized by high levels of resistance to everyday demands and requests. Extreme avoidance of demands and need for control. Understanding the PDA profile in autism is essential for parents seeking to support their child effectively. Sep 14, 2023 · PDA is best explained as an extreme avoidance of everyday activities, refusal of demands and challenges with authority due to severe anxiety. Difficulty with social interactions and communication. PDA autism is a unique profile within the autism spectrum, characterized by extreme demand avoidance, anxiety and control issues, and social communication challenges. PDA is closely related to autism spectrum disorder, attention deficit Jun 19, 2024 · PDA & School. Individuals with PDA find everyday demands extremely challenging and often experience overwhelming anxiety and distress PDA PDA stands for pathological demand avoidance, but many people who have this profile prefer the term persistent drive for autonomy. S. Coregulation can quickly change to co-escalation. Our recent Parenting Impossible podcast guest, Diane Gould, is the founder of PDA North America Oct 17, 2021 · Caitie and Casey talk about Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) in the context of school, the type of accommodations that are necessary for a PDA child to succeed, and what their children’s school journeys have been like for them and for the whole family. Approach PDA as you might caring for a panda – create the environment which will enable individuals to thrive. Children with PDA do not respond to typical behavioural interventions and strategies, in fact any attempts to correct behaviours are usually met with escalation or even outright aggression. When assessing and diagnosing, clinicians can add appropriate descriptive terms to an autism diagnosis. Often displays high levels of anxiety and may have meltdowns. , it is real, and we’re at the forefront as parents bringing awareness to the medical community, our schools, our families and friend circles. . Individuals with PDA autism exhibit extreme anxiety and an overwhelming need to be in control, particularly in relation to demands and expectations placed upon them. See the person, explore their interests and engage positively. Although children in general may often What is PDA? This section includes information about how PDA relates to autism, what demand avoidance is, identifying and diagnosing PDA as well as a research summary, FAQs and the benefits of understanding the PDA profile. JUN 22, 2021. , (2003) to describe children who, while ‘reminiscent of autism’, show surprising and challenging features within autism services. They have some features of thinking and behaving that are similar to autism, but their profile is characterised by high anxiety which drives a need to control and avoid the ordinary demands of everyday life. Autism is dimensional, it involves a complex and overlapping pattern of strengths, differences and challenges that present differently from one individual to another; and in the same Jul 28, 2021 · Requests for diagnoses of pathological demand avoidance have increased over recent years, but pathological demand avoidance remains a controversial issue. The comparison between Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) and Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) reveals distinct behavioral patterns. Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) Autism is a specific profile within the autism spectrum that is characterized by extreme resistance to everyday demands and requests. These are pupils who often have a difficult experience of education. Irritability is a classic sign of Pathological Demand Avoidance. Autistic people may avoid demands or situations that trigger anxiety or sensory overload, disrupt routines, involve transitioning from one activity to another, and activities/events that they don’t see the point of or have any interest in. 93. Nov 27, 2023 · PDA is closely related to Autism, with many diagnosticians believing it is a subtype or a profile of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). This is not the case for every person with autism, so not every autistic person has PDA. Education, health and social care services are designed to be 'needs-based' and 'outcomes-focused'. In kids who fit the PDA profile, resistance is sometimes mistaken for willful defiance, says Cynthia Martin, PsyD, clinical director of the Autism Center at the Child Mind Institute. ODD is characterized by defiance and aggression toward authority figures, while PDA Autism involves an intense aversion to demands and a pervasive drive for autonomy. It is a rare behavioural phenotype of ASD that is characterised by an overwhelming or obsessional need to resist or avoid demands, which can often lead to sensory overwhelm causing meltdowns and violent outbursts. May 27, 2021 · “Pathological demand avoidance” (PDA) was coined in the 1980s to describe a profile seen in some children on the autism spectrum/with autistic features characterized by obsessive resistance to everyday requests, plus strategic or “socially manipulative” behavior to avoid (Newson, 1983; Newson et al. zc go xk ku op oe li hl qz bk