Pathological demand avoidance (explained by ducks) | Diploma Duck

PDA (Pathological Demand Avoidance) is a behavior seen in some people with autism or ADHD, where we feel an overwhelming need to avoid demands or expectations. This can lead to stress or frustration in everyday situations. If you’re in a relationship with a neurodivergent partner, it’s important to communicate openly and respectfully about these challenges. Expressing struggles ahead of time without judgment helps avoid misunderstandings and promotes a supportive, compassionate environment for b

How can I support my PDA (Pathological Demand Avoidance) child or teen to stay regulated? 🧐 Experiment with the 4 S’s: 👉Screens 👉Safe Nervous System (yours) 👉Special Interest 👉Sensory intense experience, dopamine or novelty This is the framework I use to think through unsctructured time with my PDA son and has helped 100s of parents think through everything from long weekends with their PDA child to beginning #unschooling after school refusal. I hope it serves you ❤️ . . . #pathologicaldema

Does your child have ADHD or Pathological Demand Avoidance? Or both? Sometimes we don’t know for sure until we engage in some trial and error with different approaches and parenting strategies. If you are using behavioral strategies or “executive functioning” supports for your ADHD child that consistently aren’t working or are making things worse, it may be an opportunity to look through the nervous system lens! 🩷 Not sure if your child is PDA? Our free 6-minute survey can help you figure it ou

1.5K views | Understanding PDA (Pathological Demand Avoidance) is the...