PDA (no not that kind)

Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) is a behavioural profile that describes a person's persistent resistance to demands, particularly those that challenge their independence. It's a profile that traditionally is viewed as part of some on the autistic spectrum, but is more and more recognised as also occurring in those diagnosed with ADHD.

Some characteristics of PDA in adults include:

• Resistance: An extreme anxiety-driven need to avoid ordinary demands, even when they want to fulfil them 

• Social strategies: Using social strategies to resist demands, such as appearing sociable while lacking social understanding 

• Mood swings: Experiencing intense mood swings and impulsivity 

• Outbursts: Experiencing extreme outbursts if demands are escalated 

• Meltdowns: Experiencing sensory overwhelm that can lead to meltdowns and violent outbursts 

PDA is based in anxiety, and is often an attempt to protect a person's sense of autonomy and control.

Some ways to help someone with PDA include:

• Choice on how to cope with demands

• Giving or gaining a sense of control

• Using their interests in role play or parallel play

• Avoiding threats, ultimatums, and talking down

PDA screening tool

https://embrace-autism.com/eda-qa/

PDA UK website

https://www.pdasociety.org.uk/