Role Traps and Control Conflicts: Autistic Pathological Demand Avoidance (AuPDA) in the Criminal Justice System

This qualitative study explored the lived experiences of autistic individuals with a Pathological Demand Avoidance (AuPDA) profile and professionals working within the UK Criminal Justice System (CJS). Through interviews with AuPDA individuals and family members, alongside survey data from CJS professionals, the study identified how limited understanding of AuPDA led to misinterpretation of demand avoidance as deliberate defiance or manipulation. This frequently resulted in escalating control-based responses, increased fear, and repeated CJS involvement. Three key themes emerged: misinterpreting resistance, the importance of knowledge and understanding, and the need for systems of care rather than control. Findings highlight how reciprocal control conflicts between AuPDA individuals and CJS professionals can intensify distress and risk, while trauma-informed, low-arousal, choice-based approaches and multidisciplinary collaboration can reduce escalation. The study emphasises the urgent need for specialist training, flexible systems, and family-inclusive support to improve outcomes and prevent unnecessary criminalisation of autistic people with PDA profiles.