What is the PDA profile of autism?

Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) was first mentioned in the 1980s but there has been limited research about the condition.

It is not currently a recognised diagnosis in international diagnostic manuals. Therefore it is not a formal diagnosis that the NHS can give.

The core feature of PDA is an extreme resistance to and avoidance of everyday demands. Your child might refuse to comply with basic instructions even when these are part of their usual routine (e.g. brushing their teeth).