Pathological Demand Avoidance
Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA): Understanding and Support
Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) is a profile often associated with autism, where individuals experience extreme anxiety when faced with everyday demands.
What may look like defiance is actually a stress response — a way to cope with overwhelming pressure.
What is PDA?
Teenagers with PDA may:
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Refuse or avoid demands to an extreme extent
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Go into “shutdown” mode when tasks feel overwhelming
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Say things like, “I can’t do that; my body won’t let me”
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Struggle with cooperation if they feel pressured or controlled
These behaviours are not deliberate disobedience but a response to high anxiety. Recognising this is essential for providing the right support.
Harnessing Strengths in PDA
Despite the challenges, many people with PDA have remarkable strengths, including:
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Exceptional problem-solving skills
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Creativity and innovative thinking
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Strong passions and deep focus on interests
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Ability to build meaningful relationships when trust is established
When nurtured, these strengths can help individuals thrive in school, relationships, and future careers.
PDA and Daily Life
Living with PDA requires flexibility and understanding from families, schools, and peers.
Common strategies that make a difference include:
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Empowering individuals by giving them control over choices and routines
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Reducing pressure and avoiding direct confrontation
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Building trust to encourage cooperation
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Using interests as a motivator for engagement
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Staying calm and avoiding power struggles
PDA and Schools
Educational settings play a vital role in supporting students with PDA.
Helpful strategies include:
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Flexible learning approaches tailored to the individual
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Reduced pressure during stressful times, such as exams
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Incorporating student interests into lessons
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Creating safe, supportive spaces that minimise anxiety
Support for PDA
At Neurodiversity Support UK, we work with families and schools to:
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Identify signs of PDA through pre-assessments
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Provide strategies to reduce anxiety and increase cooperation
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Build resilience and self-confidence in teenagers with PDA
