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Pathological demand avoidance syndrome: a necessary distinction within the pervasive developmental disorders
E Newson1, K Le Maréchal, C David
1Early Years Diagnostic Centre, 272 Longdale Lane, Ravenshead, Nottingham NG15 9AH, UK. diagnostic-centre@sutherlandhouse.org.uk
Archives of Disease in Childhood
|June 24, 2003
Summary
Pathological Demand Avoidance Syndrome (PDA) should be recognized as a distinct condition within pervasive developmental disorders. Statistical analysis confirms PDA differs significantly from autism and Asperger's syndrome.
Area of Science:
- Neurodevelopmental Disorders
- Child Psychology
- Autism Spectrum Disorders
Background:
- Pathological Demand Avoidance Syndrome (PDA) is currently classified under Pervasive Developmental Disorder Not Otherwise Specified (PDDnos).
- Existing classifications do not adequately capture the unique characteristics of PDA.
- There is a need to differentiate PDA from classic autism and Asperger's syndrome.
Purpose of the Study:
- To propose the recognition of PDA as a separate diagnostic entity.
- To statistically differentiate PDA from classic autism and Asperger's syndrome.
- To describe a criterial structure for PDA diagnosis.
Main Methods:
- Discriminant functions analysis was employed.
- Data were collected from a random sample of 50 children diagnosed with PDA.
- A follow-up sample of 18 young adults with PDA was included.
Main Results:
- PDA was found to be significantly different from classic autism and Asperger's syndrome.
- An equal sex ratio was observed in 150 PDA cases.
- Demand avoidance through social manipulation is a key feature distinguishing PDA from autistic spectrum disorders.
Conclusions:
- PDA warrants recognition as a distinct condition within pervasive developmental disorders.
- The findings support a separate diagnostic category for PDA.
- A defined criterial structure can aid in diagnosing PDA.