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Neurodiversity Podcast

Challenging What We Know About Autism and PDA

Oct 17, 2024
Dr. Donna Henderson, a seasoned clinical neuropsychologist and co-author of a pivotal autism guide, shares her insights on the evolving assessment of autism. She discusses the shift from rigid testing to understanding individual experiences and the crucial role of therapist empowerment in diagnosis. The conversation dives deep into masking, highlighting its complexities and the quest for balance in supporting neurodiverse individuals. Henderson also unpacks the nuances of Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA), advocating for a clearer understanding to improve support and reduce stigma.
40:24

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Quick takeaways

  • The evolving assessment process for autism emphasizes understanding subjective experiences over traditional test scores to better capture individual needs.
  • Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) highlights the critical importance of recognizing intense autonomy needs, distinguishing it from other forms of demand avoidance in diagnosis.

Deep dives

Understanding Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA)

Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) is characterized by an intense need for autonomy, which distinguishes it from other forms of demand avoidance. Individuals with PDA may resist demands not merely due to the nature of the request but because they perceive it as a loss of control. This resistance can manifest itself even in enjoyable tasks if they feel pressured to comply. The importance of recognizing PDA lies in accurately diagnosing individuals who might otherwise be mislabelled, such as with Oppositional Defiant Disorder, which can have severe consequences on their treatment and support.

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