153 Parenting a child with PDA (Pathological Demand Avoidance) with Jessica Hanzo
Jan 28, 2025
PDA (Pathological Demand Avoidance) (now being reframed as Pervasive Demand for Autonomy) is a profile on the Autism Spectrum characterized by a heightened sensitivity of the nervous system that becomes activated when a person experiences a loss of autonomy or equality.
Did you know that 70% of learners with PDA are not able to participate in traditional school settings?
In this episode, we dive into with early childhood mental health consultant and therapist Jessica Hanzo. Jessica sheds light on how PDA differs from typical demand avoidance due to its pervasive impact on the nervous system, making it challenging for individuals to access even their basic needs.
Our conversation explores:
- Why a child’s demand avoidance is NOT a parental failure.
- The external manifestations of PDA and how they can be misinterpreted.
- How to support parents, educators, and caregivers when supporting children with PDA.
- Low Demand Parenting, and how it can help your child
Jessica emphasizes the importance of reframing PDA behaviors as a response to feeling unsafe and highlights the value of understanding the nervous system, cultivating curiosity, and embracing creativity when working with these children.
You can connect with Jessica Hanzo on Instagram @pda.project or find her at https://pdaproject.com/ and explore more of her insights on supporting neurodivergent children through a neurodiversity-affirming and trauma-informed approach.
Links mentioned in the podcast:
https://www.pdasociety.org.uk/
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Disclaimer: The information in this Podcast is for educational purposes only. Vaishnavi Sarathy, Ph.D. is an educator, not a doctor, specifically not your child’s doctor. Please consult your physician before implementing any supplement or diet recommendations.
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