Pathological Demand Avoidance
Pathological demand avoidance (PDA) describes a profile, usually discussed within autism, in which everyday demands trigger an intense stress response and a strong need for control, with avoidance persisting regardless of rewards or consequences. It is a debated, informal profile rather than a formal diagnostic category.
Read the full guide →This is a short glossary definition. For signs, causes, research, and how therapy can help, see the complete guide to pathological demand avoidance. Browse more terms in the DrSensory glossary.
