This straightforward guide offers a complete overview of Pathological Demand Avoidance Syndrome (PDA) and gives practical advice for overcoming the difficulties it poses in a wide range of contexts from diagnosis through to adulthood. Starting with an exploration into the background of PDA that answers many of the immediate questions triggered when a child is first diagnosed, the book goes on to look at the impact of the condition on different areas of the child's life and what can be done to help. The authors present useful information on early intervention options and workable strategies for managing PDA positively on a day-to-day basis. They also examine ways to minimize common difficulties that may be encountered at home and school, making life easier for the child, family and peers. The final chapters tackle new problems that can arise when the teenage years hit and how to assist a successful transition from adolescence to adulthood. Illustrative case examples are included throughout, and the book concludes with a list of valuable resources for further information and advice. Full of helpful guidance and support, this user-friendly introductory handbook is essential reading for anyone caring for, or working with, children with PDA.

Table of Contents

Introduction. 1. Towards an Understanding of Pathological Demand Avoidance syndrome. 2. Positive Everyday Strategies For Professionals and Parents. 3. Living with PDA: Common Problems for the Family and Strategies for Home. 4. Educational Provision; what makes a good school for a child with PDA? 5. Developing Emotional well-being and self awareness in children with PDA. 6. Summing up and Questions for the Future. FAQs.

About the Author

Phil Christie is Director of Sutherland House Children's Services, which has recently been awarded specialist status and was judged to be outstanding by OFSTED. He leads a team of Consultant Child Psychologists at the Elizabeth Newson Centre, which carries out training and research activities and has particular expertise in Pathological Demand Avoidance Syndrome. Phil is Associate Editor of 'Good Autism Practice', and became Chair of the Advisory Council of the Autism Education Trust in 2009. Dr Margaret Duncan MBchB, MRCGP, FSRH trained in Sheffield as a GP and is a parent to a child with PDA. She coordinates the PDA Contact Group (part of contact-a-family), an internet based group providing information and support for parents and professionals. Zara Healy, BA (Hons), PGCE, is a parent of a child with PDA. She trained as a journalist and worked for the BBC for nearly a decade as a radio and television reporter. Zara is now a full-time Senior Lecturer in Media Production at the University of Lincoln and she continues to freelance as a broadcast journalist.