The Differences between Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) and Pathological Demand
Avoidance Disorder (PDA)
 Individuals with PDA have the same level of difficulties with social interaction, social communication, difficulties with
peers, repetitive routines and obsessions as those with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). This differentiates them from
individuals with ODD who do not!
 Individuals with PDA have an obsessive need to avoid the demands, expectations and even suggestions of others. They
find it impossible to comply with even simple demands E.G. personal hygiene, sitting down or playing a game that they
enjoy if it has been suggested by someone else. Individuals with ODD do not show this same level of avoidance to
everyday demands regardless of personnel consequences!
 Individuals with PDA have higher levels of emotional stress, overall childhood difficulties and higher levels of parental
stress when compared to individuals with ODD.
 Individuals with ODD may have a lack of respect for authority but do appear to understand their pecking order in
society. They do not appear to view themselves as an adult. Individuals with PDA do!
 Individuals with ODD are less likely to display behaviour that would seem weird to their peer group E.G. playing with a
soft toy when it is no longer age appropriate to do so, drawing attention to themselves in public, shouting out
inappropriate remarks, removing their clothes or having a public meltdown. Individuals with PDA do display this type of
behaviour!
 Individuals with ODD do tend to respond to reinforced behaviour strategies and are highly motivated by rewards.
Individuals with PDA don’t!
Created by Jane Sherwin 2014
for more information please visit www.thepdaresource.com www.pdasociety.org.uk