What is Pathological Demand Avoidance?
Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) is a profile of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) characterized by an extreme avoidance of everyday demands and an anxiety-driven need for control. It’s important to know that PDA is a neurodevelopmental condition and not a choice.
Common Traits of PDA
- Avoidance of Demands:
- Strong resistance to routine requests and expectations, leading to high levels of stress and anxiety.
- Resistance to making choices or decisions
- Use of ‘Avoidance Strategies’:
- You may use tactics such as negotiation, or distraction to divert from tasks or situations you find overwhelming.
- Anxiety-Driven Behaviour:
- An anxiety about loss of control or uncertainty.
- Social Communication Difficulties:
- Challenges in understanding the social or emotional context of demands.
- Withdrawing from communicating when given a demand is overwhelming
Tips for Managing PDA
- . Be Patient:
- Understand that everyday demands can be extremely challenging for someone with PDA.
- Provide Choices:
- Offer options and flexibility in tasks whenever possible.
- Use Calm Language:
- Use non-confrontational language and avoid giving ultimatums.
- Recognize Triggers:
- Learn about what situations or demands may be particularly difficult, and try to plan ahead.
- Offer Predictability:
- Establish routines and provide information about upcoming events.