Episode 64: Is your child's demand avoidance PATHOLOGICAL?
What is Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA), and how does it differ from typical demand resistance in children? Could it be a form of anxiety that leads to extreme avoidance of everyday tasks? How does this anxiety drive behaviours that may appear manipulative, and why do children with PDA seek control in their environments?
What are the key strategies for parents dealing with a child who has PDA? How can reducing demands and offering choices help to lower a child's anxiety? Could breaking tasks into smaller steps or introducing flexibility in routines foster a more cooperative environment?
Why is collaborative problem-solving essential in managing PDA? What role does imaginative play or role-playing serve in helping children process emotions and respond to demands? Can the use of visual supports—such as task boards—minimise verbal instructions and reduce resistance?
Finally, how can parents help their children gradually build tolerance to demands? Is it possible to start with low-pressure activities and slowly introduce more structure? Could this approach, combined with patience and understanding, lead to a more positive and calm parenting experience?
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