
09/03/2024
Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA), also known as Pervasive Drive for Autonomy, is a term used to describe a profile of autism. People with PDA can experience a fight, flight or freeze response when faced with demands that threaten their autonomy, which can trigger intense emotional reactions. Understanding the core characteristics of PDA can help caregivers and healthcare professionals respond with more empathy and attunement, which is crucial for effectively supporting individuals with PDA.