The PDA Paradox cover art

The PDA Paradox

The Highs and Lows of My Life on a Little-Known Part of the Autism Spectrum

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The PDA Paradox

By: Harry Thompson, Felicity Evans - foreword
Narrated by: Elliot Chapman
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About this listen

A memoir by an adult with PDA, reflecting back on his early childhood through to present day.

Diagnosed with pathological demand avoidance (PDA) in his teenage years, Harry Thompson looks back with wit and humour at the ups and downs of family and romantic relationships, school, work and mental health, as well as his teenage struggle with drugs and alcohol.

By embracing neurodiversity and emphasising that autistic people are not flawed human beings, Thompson demonstrates that some merely need to take the 'scenic route' in order to flourish and reach their full potential. The memoir brings to life Harry's past experiences and feelings, from his torrid time at school to the peaceful and meaningful moments when he is alone with a book, writing or creating YouTube videos.

Eloquent and insightful, The PDA Paradox will bring listeners to shock, laughter and tears through its overwhelming honesty. It is a turbulent memoir, but it ends with hope and a positive outlook to the future.

©2019 Harry Thompson (P)2019 Jessica Kingsley Publishers Children's Health Mental Health People with Disabilities Psychology Psychology & Mental Health Relationships Autism Inspiring Thought-Provoking Autism Memoir

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All stars
Most relevant  
As a parent of a young PDA boy, this book was simply enormously helpful. Harry explains PDA from the inside out in no uncertain terms, with utter honesty, openness, humour and humility. It was very funny and moving at times. Recommended for anyone wanting to get their head and heart around this not so often visited corner of autism.

Moving, enlightening and insightful book

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I listened to this book in 2 days as I couldn’t put it down. I will probably listen to it again to process and digest it even more.

This book has helped me to understand my Autistic daughter better and although she doesn’t have a PDA diagnosis, I am now even more positive that she is PDA.

Thankyou for sharing your life experiences and for giving me hope that the future can be bright for my daughter and I will trust in her to show me the way 🙏🏾😁

Brilliant!!

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Candid, sharing of insights and experience, humble and a darn right useful book to read.

Brilliant

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Emotional, sad and at times made me giggle. This was so easy to listen to and gave a great insight into the life that many have had and many are just beginning.
Well done Harry. 👍

An amazing story!

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I really enjoyed listening to this book trials and tribulations. The system really isn't knowledgeable enough to place enough adaptions for neurodivergent individuals. This is a must-read for anyone neurodivergent or wants to know more.

Funny, relatable, sad

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I felt like you were writing my story except for drink and drugs my hunger is in the literal sense of food addiction. This book has been so refreshing and hearing your stories has helped my parents see now why I was the bossy, stubborn and difficult child. They could never understand because I was so ‘gifted’ and studious in subjects that interested me. Thank you for sharing yourself with us.

How relatable you are Harry

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I enjoyed listening to this book while walking.
It is helpful, enlightening and a little funny in places.

Enlightening, helpful, enjoyable.

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I had been avoiding this book I think because I am still coming to terms with the fact I am myself PDA however yesterday his video reminded of a situation in my life not that long ago I went through and as I had a free audible trial I decided to face my fears and brace myself for what I thought I was about to hear.

I am so glad I did - it was not at all what I had imagined and whilst the names and the places were different the situations rang such a bell with everything I’ve endured through my 49 years ago it makes me want to share my journey because whilst I wouldn’t want to change what I’ve been through I am quite surprised I’m still alive and I do think things could’ve been a little easier had I known about my PDA a smidgin earlier than last year.

We are all discovering the woes and the wonders of PDA every day and I have to give a big thanks to Harry because there are plenty more around who don’t share and they haven’t helped the thousands like me who just want to be.

I am looking forward to the next instalment!

Essential for anyone affected by or who wants to learn about PDA

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Brilliantly written and performed. Funny, emotional and informative. Great for anyone wanting an insight into PDA.

Wonderful.

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Gives a great insight into PDA and a different perspective on how to support and understand my daughter.

Really interesting listen

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