Children with a Demand Avoidant (PDA) profile aren’t resisting support — they’re experiencing an involuntary neurophysiological threat response. Yet many systems still rely on compliance-based models that intensify crisis. This article explores why traditional approaches fail, and how Trauma-Informed Practice (TIP) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) offer a sustainable, evidence-based path from crisis to collaboration.

Paperwork is rarely the problem. This briefing explores why the absence of clear frameworks leads to crisis, and how values-led, systemic approaches can create stability, improve quality of life, and reduce reliance on crisis services.