Can I Tell You about Pathological Demand Avoidance Syndrome?: A Guide for Friends, Family and Professionals

"An excellent book, it could be my daughter writing it. Really helpful in explaining PDA to her, friends and family." Reader review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

"This book will be an exceptional resource for parents and professionals who are at the beginning of their journey and looking to develop an understanding of the person that they are supporting with PDA" Reader review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

"This book was an excellent way to start to understand the subject matter! My daughter will even be able to read it and understand." Reader review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Meet Issy - an 11-year-old girl with pathological demand avoidance syndrome (PDA), a condition on the autism spectrum. Issy invites readers to learn about PDA from her perspective, helping them to understand how simple, everyday demands can cause her great anxiety and stress. Issy tells readers about all the ways she can be helped and supported by those around her.

This illustrated book is for readers aged 7 and upwards, and will be an excellent way to increase understanding about PDA in the classroom or at home. It also includes practical tips and recommended resources for parents and professionals.


About the Author
Ruth Fidler is Education Consultant at Sutherland House School, Norsaca Children's Services. She has worked with children across the autism spectrum including those with PDA since 1993. Ruth is actively involved in delivering training nationally about PDA to parents and professionals. She also works directly with children and young people with complex autism and PDA where her areas of focus include developing self awareness, interactive approaches, emotional well being and promoting an understanding of how the autism spectrum affects individuals. She lives in Nottingham, UK with her 3 children. Phil Christie is a Consultant Child Psychologist to the Elizabeth Newson Centre (ENC) and also works on an independent basis. Through the centre he provides diagnostic assessments of children from across the UK and has a particular specialism in PDA. Phil delivers training nationally on PDA and promoting emotional well-being in children with autism. He is a member of the programme board of the Autism Education Trust and also lives in Nottingham, UK.