Understanding Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA)

Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) is a subset of Autism Spectrum Disorder. It is formally diagnosed in the UK and consists of the following key features:
a. Resists and avoids the ordinary demands of life
b. Uses social strategies as part of the avoidance
c. Appears sociable on the surface, but lacking depth in understanding
d. Experiences excessive mood swings and impulsivity
e. ‘Obsessive’ behavior, often focused on other people
f. Appears comfortable in role play and pretend, sometimes to an extreme extent (this feature is not always present)

In this webinar, Dr. Ariel Kornblum, PsyD, BCBA will discuss differential diagnosis of PDA, when to consider a PDA profile, and how to develop interventions and environmental modifications. Additionally, this webinar will discuss training and advocacy opportunities.