Title: Parental Evaluation of Educational Provision for Children with Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA): A Qualitative Study (MEd Dissertation) 

Description:

Keywords: Autism, Pathological Demand Avoidance, Extreme Demand Avoidance, PDA, Parent Blame, Education 

Author: Linda Lumsden 

 

Summary 

This is a dissertation by a masters student that explores how PDA children engage with learning. Using a combination of interviews and surveys alongside a review of published evidence, the paper helps us understand parent and carers perspectives on children’s experiences in education. 

The research focuses on the importance of focusing support on the individual needs of children and families. Parents and carers also make the following recommendations for improving PDA children’s experience of education: 

  • Professionals in school need more knowledge of PDA to be able to make adjustments around children. 
  • There needs to be more cooperation between everyone in a child’s life to help manage the transition between home and school 
  • Parents should be treated as experts in their children, and partners in their educational journey. 

 

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