Episode 21: PDA + Early Autism Diagnosis

In this episode, Dr. Taylor Day, PhD, a clinical psychologist specializing in autism spectrum disorders, shared valuable insights on two important topics: Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) and the early diagnosis of autism.

PDA is a behavior profile within the autism community that is characterized by a persistent drive for autonomy. One of the key challenges with PDA is that it is not widely recognized. This lack of recognition can lead to children and families not receiving the adequate support they need.

Dr. Day also discussed the critical role of early autism diagnosis in ensuring that children are provided with the tools they need to succeed in social, academic, and personal settings. As awareness of autism grows, Dr. Day emphasizes the importance of continued research and education in these areas. By doing so, the field can better support children and their families.

This episode of Co-Treat Corner provides a valuable overview of two critical topics in autism care, offering insights that are essential for clinicians, educators, and parents alike.