Kathy HoopmanN
ALL ABOUT PDA
An Insight into Pathological Demand Avoidance
Children’s Non fiction
Through engaging text and full-colour photographs, this book shows how PDAers see and experience the world and highlights the unique characteristics that make them special. A perfect introduction to PDA for those recently diagnosed, as well as their families, friends, and the people who work with them!
A Peek Inside
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Why I Wrote It
When I considered writing a book on Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA), my first thought was, ‘Is there a need for it?’ To find out, I approached the experts – PDAers themselves -and I was resoundingly told, ‘Yes! We need others to know about us, to understand us and realise we are not trying to be difficult. Please write this book.’ Likewise, when I approached those who lived and worked with PDAers,they said, ‘We want people to know that PDAers are amazing people who help us reevaluate our philosophies and approaches to life and may well be the catalyst for systemic change to education and welfare that benefits all. Please write this book!’
So, I wrote this book.
PDA, first identified by psychologist Elizabeth Newson in the 1980s, is a diagnosis in progress. PDAers exhibit an extreme resistance to, or avoidance of, the everyday demands of life, even activities they may enjoy, based on a need to feel in control when anxious or stressed. It is not recognised on the DSM 5 and various specialists have different views about what it is and how it plays out in life. There is a consensus that it is a profile of autism, and it certainly shows up mostly under the autistic umbrella. However, some researchers suggest that there are PDA links to ADHD and other diagnoses as well, and some believe it is a stand-alone condition. Likewise, the language around PDA is constantly adapting and changing. Even the term ‘Pathological Demand Avoidance’ has its nay-sayers, with alternative preferences including Pervasive Drive for Autonomy, Persistent Drive for Autonomy, Pervasive Demand Avoidance or Extreme Demand Avoidance among others. Currently, the term Pathological Demand Avoidance is used for the sake of continuity and clarity, although that may change in the future. So, when I wrote this book, I had to take all that into consideration.
I have to admit that this is one of the hardest books I have ever written. I lost track of the number of edits it took to get the language right. The last page alone went through numerous changes. I could not have written this book alone. I am very grateful to those in the PDA community who gave me enormous amounts of their time, wisdom and story-sharing. Special thanks goes to Heidi Brandis (Founder of PDA Perth WA Parent Community and Support Group) and Sally Canadine (PDA Talk) who patiently spent hours and hours helping me fine-tune the language and correct the grammar and who were not afraid to tell me when I got things wrong. I pray that the result is a book in which PDAers can see themselves affirmed on the page and through which their parents and carers and siblings and friends and teachers can find understanding and hope. And hopefully, all can come away with a smile and the knowledge that things can get better.
Reviews
Kathy Hoopmann has captured the enigma that is PDA in this delightful book! I only wish it was around years ago to help us navigate our parenting journey. Neurodivergent and neurotypical families may recognise the at-times highly entertaining, and at-times rather hair-raising rollercoaster ride, of PDA life. Beautifully illustrated with photos from the animal kingdom All About PDA is a heartfelt, helpful and hopeful introduction to PDA.
Heidi Brandis Founder PDA Perth WA Parent Community & Support Group Author WA Autism Parent Handbook
Kathy skilfully demystifies the PDA profile in this vibrant and engaging book; a delightful read for children and adults and children alike.
Sally Canadine (she/her). Registered Counsellor and Director of PDA Talk. BScAPsyc(Hons), BEd(Prim), GDipCounsDetails Here
“All About PDA” is a wonderful book that simply, but beautifully illustrates the characteristics of PDA. The use of beautiful photographs of animals will help readers of all ages gain a greater understanding into this sometimes complex and misunderstood condition. In particular I believe this book will benefit children who have recently been diagnosed. It will be an excellent addition to the ever growing and much needed library of books on PDA.”
Reviewer’s Laura Kerbey MBPsS. BSc (Hons), PGCE, PGCE (Autism), NPQH Founder – PAST – Positive Assessments Education Support and Training©
Kathy Hoopmann’s Introduction to PDA lives up to expectations by providing readers with an authentic insight into the experiences of a PDA child. By presenting relatable life scenarios, it effectively bridges the gap between PDA readers and their peers, family members, educators, and the wider community. This book offers an understanding of the daily challenges and internal struggles faced by individuals with PDA. It is an essential educational resource for schools, classrooms, and allied health waiting rooms.
summer Farrelly They | Them Inclusion Advocate, Public Speaker, Educator & Consultant
PDA can be difficult to explain. Kathy provides clear, engaging explanations with humor and a focus on strengths. I can highly recommend this book to autistic children with a PDA profile, their parents and anyone who wants to know more about PDA. A brilliant book.
Dr Michelle S Garnett – Clinical Psychologist MPsych(Clin) PhD MAPS FCCP
At last, we have a simple and insightful guide to PDA that uses humour and captivating photographs. Parents and professionals will avidly read every page to discover and explore the world as experienced by someone who has a PDA profile.
Professor Tony Attwood Clinical Psychologist MSc, PhD(Psych), AFBPsS, MAPS, FCCP
This delightful book provides insight into how demands may feel for PDAers. Simultaneously, readers gain a comprehensive understanding of this complex profile while being equipped with helpful ways to offer support.
Dr Theresa Kidd (she/her) | ClinicalPsychologist & Clinical Director B.Psych(Hons.) PhD (Clinical Psychology) MACPA, FAPS (CCLIN), MAACBT, MAADPA, MAusPATH, MWPATH