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pathalogical demand avoidance pda

Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) Training

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Our Pathological Demand Avoidance course enables attendees to gain knowledge on recognising the characteristics of PDA and understand how to support an individual with PDA.

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  • Certified
  • 3 hours
  • Classroom, Virtual

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Learn effective support strategies to support children and young people with PDA.

What is PDA? What is ASD? What is ODD? What is the triad of impairments? What are the benefits of a PDA profile label? What are the features of PDA? What is the Hierarchy of response? What are demand avoidance tactics? What’s the difference between PDA and ODD? What are direct demands? What are indirect demands? What are triggers? What strategies can be put in place? What is the 6STM?

Our Pathological Demand Avoidance course will help you to answer the questions above and more.

In 2018, a PDA Society report found that of a group of young people with Autism, 70% found a lack of understanding/acceptance a barrier to getting support, 78% had difficulties with daily tasks and 49% of young people had a diagnosis that included a PDA profile.

Through our Pathological Demand Avoidance course, you will gain an understanding of the definition of PDA, ASD and ODD. You will learn the characteristics of each condition. You will learn the challenges of living with PDA. You will identify potential triggers and learn strategies to support someone with PDA.

What you'll learn.

  • What is the difference between PDA, ASD and ODD.
  • Understand the challenges of living with PDA and supporting someone with PDA.
  • Be aware of potential triggers.
  • Recognise the benefits of having a PDA profile label.
  • Gain knowledge of strategies that can be put in place to provide appropriate support.

Who is Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) Training for?

Our Pathological Demand Avoidance course is for anyone working with or supporting a child or young person with a PDA profile.

What are the learning outcomes?

By the end of the course, you will be able to…

  • State the definition for a PDA profile.
  • Explain the challenges of living with PDA and supporting someone with PDA.
  • Recognise characteristics of a PDA profile and potential triggers.
  • Be able to recognise signs of escalation.
  • Demonstrate understanding of the 6 Stage Target Model.
  • Develop knowledge, skills, and strategies to support someone living with PDA.
  • Download course brochure

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) ?
Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) is a developmental disorder characterised by a strong resistance to everyday demands and expectations. PDA is not currently a formally recognised diagnosis within the DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders) but is a proposed condition within the autistic spectrum.
Diagnosing PDA in a child involves a specialist assessment, not a one-time test: 1. No Single Test: PDA isn’t an official diagnosis yet, but a specialist can assess for PDA. 2. Detailed Picture: The specialist talks to the parents, and the child, and observes them in different settings to understand behaviour patterns, development, and social interactions. 3. Questionnaires: Questionnaires might be used to gather information from caregivers about the child’s behaviour. 4. Ruling Out Other Issues: They’ll make sure it’s not something else like Oppositional Defiant Disorder or Autism. 5. Focus on the Child: The goal is to understand the child’s strengths, challenges, and specific needs to develop the best support strategies.
Triggers for Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) can be anything that feels like a loss of control or autonomy for the individual. Common triggers include: 1. Direct Commands: Bossy orders or instructions can feel very threatening to someone with PDA. 2. Changes in Routine: Disruptions to their usual schedule can be highly stressful. 3. Uncertain Situations: Unfamiliar environments or unclear expectations can trigger anxiety and resistance. 4. Sensory Overload: Loud noises, bright lights, or overwhelming textures can make it difficult to cope with demands. 5. Transitions: Moving from one activity to another can be challenging, especially if not done on their terms. 6. Social Situations: Following rules or interacting with others can be difficult if it feels restrictive. 7. The Unknown: Not knowing what to expect or how to complete a task can lead to resistance.

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