I learned something new today, and ironically enough, it was from Tik Tok (education comes in all forms, people).
This morning I heard of PDA (Pathological Demand Avoidance) for the first time. It is something that is not yet recognized as an independent diagnosis in the DSM-5, but is commonly found in people with Autism.
What is it? I haven't had a chance to dive TOO far into the research yet, but from some reading this morning, it is the avoidance of doing anything (even something enjoyable) if it is structured as a demand. What does this mean? This means that even if your child loves reading a book, if you structure the incoming activity as "we are going to read a book," your child's brain will initiate their flight or fight response, as it's perceiving the activity as a demand. Children with PDA have no control over this response.
According to Autism Awareness Centre Inc (article here), the features of PDA include:
1) resisting and avoiding the ordinary demands of life
2) using social strategies as part of the avoidance
3) appearing sociable on the surface
4) excessive mood swings and impulsivity
5) being comfortable in role play, sometimes to an extreme extent
6) 'obsessive' behaviour that is often social in nature
Now, to me, this is super interesting to read some of the features, given that Autism is so often construed as a "social disability." Lack of eye contact, misunderstanding of social cues, inability to conform to social norms are usually considered the "highlights" of Autism when referring to it as a social disability. Lots of the features of PDA seem to highlight what most would consider "masking" in an Autistic individual.
PDA is also seen as far worse than anxiety in people with Autism. One line in the above article even says the 'meltdowns' from PDA should be treated AS a panic/anxiety attack.
I feel like I now need to add this to my list of research topics and hopefully find some individuals who identify as having PDA.
Does your child show these features? Do you know anything about PDA? How do you feel about it?
XO The Spectrum Mom
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