Pathological Demand Avoidance Cheat Sheet

PDA, or Pathological Demand Avoidance, is a profile within autism where even simple requests can feel threatening to a child’s nervous system. This can lead to avoidance, shutdowns, big emotions, or explosive behavior. These reactions are not defiance. They are signs that the child’s brain feels unsafe or overwhelmed.

Inside this guide you will learn:
• What PDA is and the traits that make it unique
• Why direct demands often backfire and what you can say instead
• Scripts that reduce pressure and increase cooperation
• How to offer choices while still keeping necessary boundaries
• How connection and joining your child’s world can make transitions smoother
• Phrases you can use in difficult moments to prevent escalation
• A complete cheat sheet of PDA-friendly language for everyday situations

This resource gives you practical tools and simple language that allow you to work with your child’s brain instead of fighting against it. The goal is to bring more understanding, more connection, and fewer power struggles.

Download the cheat sheet and start building a calmer and more collaborative home.