ADHD Parenting

“Don’t Tell Me What to Do: Pathological Demand Avoidance in Neurodivergent Kids” [Video Replay & Podcast #590]

Access the video replay, listen to the podcast episode (#590), download the slide presentation, and learn how to get a certificate of attendance for this ADHD Experts webinar originally broadcast on December 16, 2025.

ADHD Expert: Diane Gould Updated on January 8, 2026
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Episode Description

As bedtime approaches, you gently remind your child to brush their teeth. Their response is startling: They scream at you, fall to the ground in despair, or run off as if you’d made an unbearable demand. This intense reaction may be a sign of Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA), which has been linked to autism and ADHD.

Children with PDA exhibit a strong desire for autonomy and are extremely sensitive to real or perceived demands. They may say they can’t do chores because their arms don’t work or use delay tactics or make excuses to avoid completing requests. PDA differs from other diagnostic categories and it’s important for parents, teachers, and other professionals to understand the challenges and supports to help children with PDA and their families.

In this webinar, you will learn:

  • How PDA stems from nervous system dysregulation, and why children with autism and ADHD are more likely to show signs and behaviors associated with PDA.
  • About the characteristics of PDA, including where and how it shows up in different settings.
  • About the behavioral strategies and supports for children with PDA, including how to help them build self-regulation skills and manage stress and strong emotions.
  • What not to do with children with PDA, including using traditional disciplinary approaches and implementing rigid structures.

Watch the Video Replay

Enter your email address in the box above labeled “Video Replay + Slide Access” to watch the video replay (closed captions available) and download the slide presentation.

Pathological Demand Avoidance: Resources

Obtain a Certificate of Attendance

If you attended the live webinar on December 16, 2025, watched the video replay, or listened to the podcast, you may purchase a certificate of attendance option (cost: $10). Note: ADDitude does not offer CEU credits. Click here to purchase the certificate of attendance option »

Meet the Expert Speaker

Diane Gould, LCSW, is a licensed clinical social worker and the founder and executive director of PDA North America. She co-authored the book Navigating PDA in America (#CommissionsEarned) with Ruth Fidler, which was published in June 2024. In April 2024, Diane was diagnosed as autistic.

Diane has a private practice in the Chicago area, where she serves neurodivergent children, adults and their families. For the last 40 plus years, she has worked for both private agencies and school systems. For more information on support and resources for Pathological Demand Avoidance, please visit PDA North America.

#CommissionsEarned As an Amazon Associate, ADDitude earns a commission from qualifying purchases made by ADDitude readers on the affiliate links we share. However, all products linked in the ADDitude Store have been independently selected by our editors and/or recommended by our readers. Prices are accurate and items in stock as of time of publication.

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