Let’s examine a typical day for Charlie, a child with Pathological Demand Avoidance. This will help us understand how PDA can affect a child’s daily routine.
Morning: Charlie wakes up and immediately feels overwhelmed by getting ready for school. Demands like brushing his teeth or putting on his uniform seem insurmountable.
School: At school, Charlie needs help to follow instructions. He often refuses to participate in class activities, preferring to do things his way.
Afternoon: After school, Charlie avoids homework and chores. He’d rather play video games or read books, activities that don’t require a lot of effort.
Evening: Bedtime is a struggle. Charlie resists the routine, often staying up late to avoid the demand of going to sleep.
Despite these challenges, Charlie is a bright and creative kid. He thrives in environments where he feels in control and can make choices.
| Time of Day |
Charlie’s Behavior |
| Morning |
Resists getting ready for school |
| School |
Struggles to follow instructions |
| Afternoon |
Avoids homework and chores |
| Evening |
Resists bedtime routine |
