The Importance of Understanding Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA)
Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) is a behavior profile within the autism spectrum characterized by an extreme avoidance of everyday demands and expectations, often driven by high levels of anxiety. Despite growing recognition of PDA, particularly in the UK, it is not formally recognized in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5), which is the leading diagnostic tool used by mental health professionals globally.