Episode #217: PDA and Collaboration Over Compliance Dr. Michael C. Selbst and Dr. Jeniffer Cruz
Dr. Michael C. Selbst and Dr. Jennifer Cruz from Behavior Therapy Associates joined me to explore Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA), a subtype of autism spectrum characteristics marked by an anxiety-based drive for control. PDA triggers a fight, flight, or freeze response to both explicit and implied demands, making traditional interventions ineffective. Individuals with PDA often have highly sensitive nervous systems and struggle with the removal of control, leading to heightened anxiety.
While there are no evidence-based strategies yet, emerging approaches emphasize collaboration over compliance. Rather than coercion, effective support comes from building trusting relationships, presenting expectations in a meaningful way, and embedding socio-emotional learning opportunities. The focus is not just on moving away from discomfort but helping individuals experience it with compassion and cooperation. As caregivers and clinicians, we must lend our calm, practice emotional intelligence, and reflect on how we show up in these interactions.
Although research in the U.S. is still developing, Dr. Selbst and Dr. Cruz recommend the UK-based PDA Society as a valuable resource for further information.
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Consultant psychologist at the Connolly Counselling Centre.
15 小时前My research on infantile posttraumatic stress disorder revealed that the first brain which is our natural alarm system has remained active by using a high frequency sound the child can hear and elevated smell and taste. Are the symptoms. Of the bodies response. Lower intake of oxygen as the breathing is upper chest defence actions resulting in cold hands and feet. Resulting in bodies being stressed and the leg and arm being a 10 cm shorter mostly on the left side. If you want to connect me on the treatment plan [email protected] and I can bring you true the program, I have by now treated hundreds of children and adults. I also have a 37 question paper to support my diagnosis, should the client answer more than 17 of the questions. .