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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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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 Health Autism Special need Witty Funny Inspiring Thought-Provoking Autism Memoir
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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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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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Because of Harrys life story I can help my fifteen year old grandson who finds this world difficult to fit in.

So helpful

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Although every person is unique and so are their experiences this is a pragmatic and honest story of navigating young life with a pervasive need for autonomy

A humor filled and honest memoir of PDA

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I really enjoyed listening to this on audible. The narrator was engaging and kept me interested to find out more.

What a wonderful person Harry is, thank you for writing this book. A lot of the content is relatable and has helped improve my understanding of PDA.

Great insight into PDA

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