Pathological Demand Avoidance/Pervasive Drive for Autonomy (PDA): Evidence, Controversy, and Implications for Neuropsychologists
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Live Webinar
Tuesday, November 17, 2026 - 7:00pm - 8:00pm EST
New York State Association of Neuropsychology (NYSAN) presents a live webinar with Emily Kurlansik, Psy.D., BCBA, NCSP
Abstract
Pathological demand avoidance (PDA) was first described by Elizabeth Newson as a pervasive developmental disorder distinct from autism, characterized by extreme resistance to the ordinary demands of daily life. More recently, some advocates have reframed PDA as a "pervasive drive for autonomy," reflecting a shift toward neuroaffirming language. Considerable debate remains over the ontological status of PDA: whether it represents a distinct syndrome, a profile within autism, a cluster of transdiagnostic traits, or a socially constructed category. This presentation will trace the evolution of the construct from Newson's original criteria to its current conceptualizations. Pediatric and adult case vignettes will be used to examine its overlap with autism, ADHD, oppositional defiant disorder, and anxiety. The presentation will also review proposed diagnostic measures and limited evidence for PDA-specific interventions. Participants will leave with a nuanced understanding of PDA that acknowledges the limitations of the term, a framework for conceptualizing this controversial presentation, and practical strategies and resources to inform clinical practice and support patients and families.
About the Presenter
Dr. Emily Kurlansik, Psy.D., BCBA, NCSP, is a clinical neuropsychologist and the founder of Emily Kurlansik Psychology PLLC, a boutique private practice in Tribeca serving children, teens, young adults, and their families. She is an Assistant Professor of Neurology and Co-Director of the Neurobehavior Clinic at SUNY Downstate Medical Center. Dr. Kurlansik specializes in comprehensive psychological and neuropsychological evaluations, including ADHD, autism and PDA profiles, learning disabilities, gifted and twice-exceptional (2E) learners, language and social communication challenges, social and emotional difficulties, behavior challenges, and medical/neurological conditions. She offers parent coaching, professional and school consultations, and educational advocacy support. She helps children and their families obtain school accommodations and special education services She often serves as an expert witness in medical cases and impartial hearings, collaborating closely with attorneys. She takes a collaborative, team-based approach, working alongside families, educators, tutors, and healthcare providers to build the right support around each child. A licensed psychologist in New York and New Jersey with PSYPACT authorization for virtual services in most states, Dr. Kurlansik holds specialty certifications as a Board Certified Behavior Analyst and Nationally Certified School Psychologist. She earned her Psy.D. from Rutgers University's Graduate School of Applied and Professional Psychology and completed her postdoctoral fellowship in neuropsychology at Columbia University Irving Medical Center.
CE Credits: 1.0 CE credit (APA/NYSED) available. Completion of an evaluation is required in order to receive credit.
Learning Objectives:
- Describe the origins and evolving terminology of pathological demand avoidance
- Discuss competing conceptualizations of the ontological status of PDA
- Compare PDA with autism, ADHD, ODD, and anxiety across the lifespan
- Critique proposed diagnostic measures for PDA
- Apply current evidence on PDA to case formulation and recommendations
PRICING:
$20 for NYSAN members
$35 for non-members
Free for Student NYSAN Members
$10 For student non-members
Financial Disclosures: None
Nonfinancial Disclosures: None
New York State Association of Neuropsychology is recognized by the New York State Education Department's State Board for Psychology as an approved provider of continuing education for licensed psychologists #PSY0052.
NYSAN is approved by the American Psychological Association to sponsor continuing education for psychologists. NYSAN maintains responsibility for this program and its content.
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