For some children, everyday demands such as "brush your teeth" or "time to get off of your computer game," can trigger intense anxiety and extreme resistance. When this type of response affects ...

Pathological Demand Avoidance — or PDA — is suddenly everywhere. Once a niche term used mostly within autism communities, it’s now trending across TikTok, showing up in therapy rooms, and sparking ...

Sophie, a 10-year-old, avoids straightforward tasks like getting dressed or doing homework. When her parents press her to comply, she might have a meltdown or withdraw to her room. At school, Sophie ...

Pathological demand avoidance (PDA) is a tendency for autistic individuals to struggle when overwhelmed by demands. On the outside, it can look like defiance or choosing not to do necessary things. On ...