What is PDA & how can we help?

Understanding Pathological Demand Avoidance in Autistic People: How First Step Support Services Can Help

When it comes to Autism, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. Every autistic person is unique, with their own strengths, challenges, and ways of interacting with the world. One of the lesser-known, but important, traits that can occur in some autistic individuals is Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA). While it’s not always talked about as much, understanding PDA can make a world of difference in how we support those who experience it. In this FAQ, we’re diving into what PDA is, how it shows up, and how the team at First Step Support Services provides NDIS support that’s specifically tailored to those with PDA.

What is Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA)?

PDA is a term used to describe a specific profile that can appear within some Neurodivergent people. It's a term that’s still evolving, but the key feature of PDA is the strong resistance to everyday demands and expectations. It’s not about being defiant for the sake of it, but rather, a deep-rooted anxiety that can cause a person to avoid demands—whether those demands are big or small.

For people with PDA, demands (even simple ones like “please get your shoes on” or “let’s go to the store”) can feel overwhelming. The instinctive response is to avoid those demands at all costs, and this can often lead to challenging behaviours. It's important to remember that PDA isn't about wilful misbehaviour; it’s a way of managing overwhelming feelings of pressure or anxiety. These behaviours may include:

  • Meltdowns or shutdowns when demands are placed

  • A tendency to use social manipulation (like distracting others) to avoid tasks

  • Constantly testing boundaries or resisting requests, even when the request is simple

How First Step Support Services Helps

At First Step Support Services, we understand that each person is different and that those with PDA need specialised, empathetic support. All of our NDIS support workers have experience working with people who have PDA, and we’re committed to using neuroaffirming approaches that respect each individual’s unique way of being.

1. Personalized, Flexible Support Work

Because PDA can look different for each person, there’s no one-size-fits-all strategy. That’s why we work closely with each individual and their family to develop a support plan that’s tailored to their specific needs. Our disability workers are trained to be responsive and flexible, meaning we’re always ready to adapt our approach depending on how the person is feeling on any given day.

2. Techniques and Strategies for Reducing Anxiety

The key to supporting someone with PDA is reducing the anxiety that comes with demands. Our NDIS support workers use a range of techniques, such as:

  • Collaborative approach: Instead of giving direct demands, we focus on collaboration. We work with the individual to find solutions that feel comfortable for them.

  • Creating a sense of control: People with PDA often feel overwhelmed when they don’t have control. We offer choices whenever possible, helping them feel more empowered and in control of their environment.

  • Flexibility and patience: We know that flexibility is essential. If something isn’t working, we pivot and try new strategies without pressuring the individual to “perform” or conform to external expectations.

Our Geelong support workers and staff in other areas are all continuously updated on the latest research, techniques, and best practices for working with individuals who have a PDA profile - or even show traits. By staying informed, we ensure that we’re always using the most effective, neuroaffirming approaches to support individuals.

3. Empathy and Understanding

Above all, our team at First Step Support Services is passionate about understanding and embracing the neurodivergent experience. PDA can be frustrating and misunderstood, but when you work with our team, you can rest assured that we approach each situation with empathy, patience, and a genuine desire to help.

We don’t see PDA as a behavior problem—we see it as a natural response to stress. By understanding the reasons behind the behaviors, we can offer the right type of support to make life a little easier, a lot more manageable, and a whole lot more joyful.




Need help finding the right support? Contact First Step Support Services for a consultation with one of our Geelong support workers or NDIS support professionals today!

What People Have to say about FSSS

  • “Can I just say how amazing Abbie is with V. I asked last week to work on hygiene and organisation as this is an OT goal and an NDIS goal. She walked in, took control of the situation and gave me a rest. I actually felt the benefit! Thankyou thankyou thankyou Abbie! Don’t let Abbie go anywhere.”

  • “I love watching how brutal K’s humour is and Jaime just rolls with it and the laughter cannot be contained, I couldn’t put a price on it. I absolutely love having Jaime around. Even when K needs a break and returns to see Jaime is still here, its definitely growing the relationship."

  • “I have found Shay to be such a caring individual, passionate about supporting people who are neurodivergent. As a person with her own lived experience, her offering is so needed. Shay is passionate, courageous and deeply kind and I cannot recommend her services highly enough. She is a true good egg. If you are Autistic or ADHD or are neurodivergent in any way, don’t walk towards her…. run towards her.”

  • “My son warmed to her so quickly which very rarely happens! While he was getting used to having Courtney around I asked her to to a tidy in his room. She did such a beautiful job, I kept going back in to look at it. I think Mondays might be my new favourite day.”

  • "Literally I was just about to say, I can honestly tell you have been picky in the BEST way. These girls (I've met B's too) have so much love and heart for their little people. I am just sooooo happy I'm in this little bliss bubble too!"

  • "I feel so much better too, and being more empowered I guess with being neurodivergent. Don’t ever accept her resignation! Last week she did a quick clean of the fridge and everyday I open it I’m reminded how much something so little can mean to me as a busy mum.”