PDA Effect

Ethan Knight, from Kent, UK, was diagnosed with autism as a teenager. Encouraged by his brother, author of The Secrets of My Spectrum, he wrote The PDA Effect to help others better understand Pathological Demand Avoidance. Ethan has a passion for medieval British history and weightlifting, both of which support his mental wellbeing. Through his writing, he hopes to raise awareness that PDA is not a behavioural issue - it is a neurological one.

• IntroductionUnderstanding PDAWhat It Feels Like for MeThe Struggle of PDAHow PDA Affects My LearningMaking Learning EasierReducing Pressure and Building ConfidenceStrategies for SupportWays to Make Things EasierPraise and Feeling UnderstoodAsking How You Can HelpFriendships and Social LifeMy Communication Style Might Be DifferentSmall Calm Environments Work BestSensitivitiesWhat Overwhelms MeTouch Can Feel UncomfortableStrong Smells Are Too OverpoweringHow I Manage All of ThisMasking, Burnout, and Seeking SupportWhat Is Autistic Burnout?When I'm StrugglingHow Parents Can HelpExplaining My Needs to My FamilyWhat I Wish People UnderstoodJust Because I Seem Fine, Doesn't Mean I AmFinal ThoughtsOrganisations and Support GroupsAbout the Author

Editorial Review (5 stars) - Brian, Autism Support CommunityEthan is 18 years old and is autistic; he also has Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA).The first thing that struck me about this book, as I am dyslexic, is how well-structured it is. The choice of font and line spacing really helped me to read it with ease, along with the use of clear white paper.Ethan wrote this book to help families like his own better understand PDA and to explore both his autistic and PDA traits. He is a powerful example of the value of lived experience, drawing on considerable insight and wisdom to explain PDA-a profile that remains little understood within the autism spectrum.I thoroughly enjoyed reading this informative book and greatly appreciated Ethan's authenticity and ability to explain things so clearly. It is refreshing to see someone so young advocating for their needs on so many levels.This book is especially valuable for other young people; it acts as a friendly guiding voice, helping them navigate sensory challenges, social interaction, and more. Yet it is equally a gem for parents, teachers, and professionals.Although I am decades older than Ethan, I was amazed by his emotional insight and his ability to advocate for himself and build bridges of understanding and communication. It was a fascinating read, and I recognised many of my own traits within it.I have recently suspected that I may fit the PDA profile myself, and it all started to make sense thanks to Ethan's gift for conveying complex topics with clarity and ease. This is one of those rare books that helps readers feel seen. It fosters greater self-awareness and self-acceptance.Ethan discusses reasonable adjustments, coping strategies, how PDA affects learning, support systems, friendships, social life, sensitivities, burnout, and guidance for parents-and so much more.I believe this book is a small lifesaver. PDA can be managed, and Ethan offers a map for navigating a world that still has a long way to go in becoming inclusive.Well done, Ethan. Your book is a masterclass in PDA and autism-a brilliantly written and informative resource.