PDA Profile

In one sentence

Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) is an autistic profile where everyday demands trigger intense anxiety and a strong need for control.

What parents often notice first

• Avoiding even simple instructions, like getting dressed.
• Appearing in control or ‘bossy’, then suddenly overwhelmed.
• Meltdowns or shutdowns when pressured.
• Using negotiation, distraction or humour to avoid demands.

What this means day-to-day

For PDA profiles, ordinary requests can feel threatening. Traditional reward charts and consequences often backfire, increasing anxiety and conflict.

When to seek help

If everyday demands trigger extreme distress or avoidance, and usual parenting strategies or school behaviour systems are not helping.

Who can help

• Autism specialist clinicians
• Psychologist
• SENCO
• Family support services

Common myths

• Myth: PDA is just oppositional behaviour.
  Truth: PDA is thought to be driven by high anxiety, not deliberate defiance.
• Myth: You just need firmer boundaries.
  Truth: For PDA profiles, collaborative, low-demand approaches are usually far more effective.