This study examines the characteristics of children referred for autism assessments, focusing on those with a Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) profile. Researchers analysed data from 351 children assessed between 2015 and 2017 at Dr. Judy Eaton’s clinic. The first part of the study compared ADOS-2 (Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule) scores between children diagnosed with autism and those diagnosed with autism plus a PDA profile. The second part explored developmental history themes in autistic children with PDA versus non-autistic children with attachment difficulties. Findings showed distinct behavioural patterns in children with PDA, some of which had not been previously documented. While the study does not claim PDA is a separate diagnosis, it adds to the evidence suggesting PDA presents as a unique behavioural profile. Further research is needed to understand its relationship to autism and other conditions.
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