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Does My Child Have PDA Quiz

3 Jul 2025 | By Emily Parker | 3 min read

Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) is a complex condition on the autism spectrum, characterized by an extreme resistance to ordinary demands. This quiz will help you better understand if your child may be exhibiting PDA traits and guide you on the next steps.

Key Takeaways:

  • Learn about PDA and its signs in children.
  • Discover practical tips on handling behaviors associated with PDA.
  • Download a free, printable quiz to assess if your child may have PDA.

What is PDA?

PDA, or Pathological Demand Avoidance is considered a behavior profile within the autism spectrum, characterized by resistance to demands and an overwhelming desire to be in control. Unlike other types of autism, children with PDA often try to avoid demands by using socially manipulative tactics, such as distracting or deflecting attention. This makes PDA difficult to recognize and even harder to manage. Understanding these behaviors is crucial for parents to help guide their child through the challenges PDA presents.

Learn more about PDA vs ODD

Identifying the Traits of PDA

Children with PDA may display certain behaviors that are different from what you might expect with other autism traits. These signs include:

  • A strong need to be in control, often using manipulation to avoid demands.
  • Excessive resistance to everyday requests, no matter how simple.
  • Highly reactive to stress, often causing meltdowns or shutdowns.
  • Difficulty with transitions or changes in routine, making flexibility a challenge.
  • A tendency to mask social interactions to avoid showing vulnerability.

If these traits resonate with you, it might be time to assess whether your child is exhibiting signs of PDA. While some of these behaviors can overlap with other diagnoses like ADHD or autism, PDA’s defining characteristic is the extreme avoidance of demands.

How to Use the PDA Quiz

The quiz is designed to help you identify signs of PDA in your child. Each question asks about specific behaviors that may suggest PDA. Remember, this quiz is a tool for raising awareness—if you notice a significant number of “yes” answers, it could be a good idea to talk to a healthcare professional for further assessment.

Pathological Demand Avoidance Test

Identify key indicators of pathological demand avoidance in your child, empowering you with valuable insights to navigate their unique challenges and access tailored support effectively.

1 / 10

Does your child often resist or refuse to follow requests or instructions?

2 / 10

Does your child exhibit extreme levels of anxiety or distress when faced with demands or expectations?

3 / 10

Does your child frequently use avoidance strategies to circumvent tasks or activities they find challenging?

4 / 10

Does your child struggle with transitions or changes in routine, often leading to meltdowns or tantrums?

5 / 10

Does your child seem to have a strong need to be in control of situations or interactions?

6 / 10

Does your child display a high level of impulsivity or recklessness in certain situations?

7 / 10

Does your child engage in manipulative or socially inappropriate behaviors to avoid compliance with demands?

8 / 10

Does your child exhibit difficulty understanding or responding to social cues or expectations?

9 / 10

Does your child demonstrate a strong preference for having things done their own way or on their own terms?

10 / 10

Does your child display a lack of regard for authority figures or rules, often challenging or defying them?

0%

What to Do If Your Child Shows Signs of PDA

If the quiz reveals several “yes” responses, it’s important to start addressing the underlying issues with professional support. While there’s no single test for PDA, understanding these behaviors can help create more effective strategies for managing them. Some helpful approaches include:

  • Allowing more flexibility in routines and schedules to reduce anxiety.
  • Using positive reinforcement rather than punishment to encourage compliance.
  • Providing clear and consistent expectations while allowing room for control.
  • Developing coping mechanisms that help your child deal with overwhelming situations.

Seeking Professional Help

While understanding PDA traits can be enlightening, a formal diagnosis is essential for a tailored support plan. A professional can help you better understand your child’s needs, including behavioral therapy or other interventions. Whether through behavioral assessments or working with a therapist experienced with PDA, support is available to help both you and your child navigate these challenges effectively.

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Goally tablet showing Mood Tuner, the emotional regulation app for kids to help them manage big emotions.

Parenting is a challenging responsibility, and having the appropriate resources and support is crucial to promote the success of both you and your child. Take our pathological demand avoidance test for kids below to see if your kiddo shares similar symptoms to kids who have a PDA diagnosis. With the right guidance and assistance, children diagnosed with PDA can lead joyful and satisfying lives.

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FAQs About Does My Child Have PDA Quiz

What is a pathological demand avoidance test?
A pathological demand avoidance test is a diagnostic tool used by professionals to identify and assess the presence of PDA (pathological demand avoidance) in children, a behavior profile seen in some individuals with autism spectrum disorder.

What are common symptoms of pathological demand avoidance?
Common symptoms of PDA include avoiding routine tasks, difficulty with change and transitions, becoming anxious in response to demands, struggles with social interactions, repetitive behaviors, and unusual responses to sensory input.

Who can diagnose pathological demand avoidance?
Only trained healthcare professionals, like doctors or specialists, can accurately diagnose pathological demand avoidance and provide parents with a tailored treatment plan to support a child's growth and well-being.

How can visual schedules, emotional regulation apps, and rewards help children with PDA?
These tools help by providing structure, predictability, and positive reinforcement, making it easier for children with PDA to cope with daily tasks, manage their emotions, and improve their overall behavior.

When should parents seek professional help for their child's suspected PDA?
If you notice some of the common PDA symptoms or have concerns about your child's behavior, it's important to seek professional help as soon as possible to ensure proper diagnosis, treatment, and support.
Article by

Emily is a seasoned blog writer for Goally, leveraging her extensive background in child psychology and special education to provide valuable insights and resources for parents. Her commitment to understanding and addressing the unique needs of these children, combined with her expertise in educational strategies, makes her a credible and empathetic voice for families.

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