PDA by PDAers : from anxiety to avoidance and masking to markdowns

Introduction -- Original post in the Adult PDA Support Network Facebook group introducing the project to fellow members -- Prologue -- Demand avoidance -- What sort of things are we driven to avoid? -- Anxiety and PDA -- PDA and masking -- Intolerance of uncertainty -- Control -- Meltdowns -- Overload -- PDA and people -- Hierarchy and rules -- Fantasy and role play -- Wordplay -- Impulsiveness -- Routine -- School -- Work -- Coping strategies -- Reasonable accommodations -- Parenting -- Our achievements -- Appendix: Statistical analyses -- Glossary.

This book is a unique window into adult Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA), exploring the diversity of distinct PDA traits through the voices of over 70 people living with and affected by the condition.

"PDA is an autistic spectrum condition which comprises a pathological drive to avoid everyday demands (commands, expectations, pressures, etc), coupled with extreme anxiety and a host of other goodies such as being interested in people and enjoying wordplay" (Sally Cat).

Sally Cat, an adult with PDA, has successfully captured the essence of a popular online support group in book form, making the valuable insights available to a wider audience, and creating a much-needed resource for individuals and professionals. Candid discussions cover issues ranging from overload and meltdowns, to work, relationships and parenting. This is a fascinating and sometimes very moving read.

Sally Cat has compiled the book from discussions between over 70 people from around the world that have taken place within the Facebook Adult PDA Support Network.