"Can you please set the table?" seems like a simple request—until your child melts down, shuts down, or suddenly "can't" do something they've done a hundred times before. If everyday requests trigger intense resistance (even for preferred activities), you might be seeing Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA). PDA isn't defiance, laziness, or manipulation. It's an anxiety-driven response where demands--no matter how small--feel like threats to autonomy, activating a fight-or-flight response. Traditional reward-and-consequence approaches often backfire spectacularly, leaving everyone exhausted and confused. In this interactive workshop, you'll learn: -What PDA actually is (and what it's not) -Why PDA brains experience requests as threatening -The language shifts that reduce resistance and build cooperation -Practical strategies for home, school, and daily life -How to support autonomy while still getting things done Through real-world case studies, partner discussions, and hands-on language practice, you'll walk away with concrete tools to reduce conflict, preserve relationships, and help PDA individuals thrive. Whether you're a parent navigating homework battles, a coach supporting families, or an educator managing classroom dynamics, this session offers compassionate, practical approaches that actually work.