“Why won’t my child get out of the car?”

“Why does my teen shut down over the smallest request?”

“Why does my young adult avoid everything—yet still has moments of brilliance and charm?”

If these questions sound familiar, you’re not alone. Many parents feel lost trying to understand a child who seems allergic to everyday demands.

Getting dressed, joining a family dinner, or even answering a simple question can trigger full-blown panic, rage, or silent withdrawal.

Is it autism? Anxiety? OCD? ODD? Or something else entirely?

The answer may be Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) — a unique, often misunderstood profile on the autism spectrum that’s finally starting to get the attention it deserves.

In this eye-opening and supportive guide, clinical psychologist Dr. Dan Boynton blends insight, humor, and real-life stories to help you:

• Understand why everyday demands can feel threatening to your child

• Recognize the signs of PDA and how it differs from other conditions

• Navigate school struggles, shutdowns, and social challenges

• Learn what really helps — and what can make things worse

• Find peace, clarity, and connection in your parenting journey

Whether your child is in preschool, middle school, or living at home as a young adult, this book offers practical tools and compassionate perspective to help you move forward.

Find out what’s really going on and how you can support your child with PDA in a way that works.