Description:
OPD Points: 5
Learn more about Extreme/Pathological Demand Avoidance
Key Learning Objectives / Outcomes:
Extreme Demand Avoidance (also referred to as Pathological Demand Avoidance), is a behavioural profile occurring within the context of a neurodevelopment diagnosis, commonly in the autism spectrum conditions. The core feature is, as the name suggests, an extreme degree of avoidance due to very high anxiety. An individual will refuse, avoid, negotiate around, procrastinate and melt-down in response to perceived commands or pressures from others and from self. This has an impact on intervention, as the advice and strategies commonly helpful in cases of autism fail and even antagonize difficult behaviours. Correct understanding is vital to appropriately and helpfully approach cases of EDA.
Presenter / Provider:
Ben Truter
Presenter Qualifications:
Founder and Clinical Lead – NDC. Currently, the MDT consists of a clinical team of approximately 30 Psychologists, Psychiatrists, Developmental Paediatrics, Paediatric Neurology, Occupational Therapy, Speech and Language Therapy, Social Work and Education Professions; as well as an additional support and administration team. Research Fellow, Ukwanda Centre for Rural Health, Stellenbosch University, and currently completing a PhD through Gothenburg University, Sweden. License-holder and primary trainer for training clinicians in the use of the Diagnostic Interview in Social and Communication Disorders (DISCO) for Sub-Saharan Africa under license from Dr Judith Gould. Part-time lecturer, Clinical Psychology programme, University of Cape Town Board Member: Neurodiversity Foundation; and CEU trainer to other clinicians
