May 5, 2026 – When Behavior Isn’t What It Seems: Understanding Pathological Demand Avoidance

This presentation will explore Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA), often considered a profile on the autism spectrum, characterized by a heightened sensitivity to everyday demands, a strong drive for autonomy, and patterns of demand avoidance that can significantly impact daily functioning. As awareness of PDA remains limited, many children with this profile may not be fully understood or supported in ways that meet their needs. Using a neurodiversity-affirming lens, this presentation will provide an overview of the PDA profile, help participants reconsider behaviors that may, on the surface, appear “oppositional” or “defiant” in nature, and explore strategies that can be used to support this group of children.