Petition
Make Pathological Demand Avoidance a formal diagnosis & support for families
Rejected
21 signatures
What the petition asks
I am petitioning for Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) to be formally recognized and diagnosed within the healthcare and educational systems. PDA is a complex profile of autism characterized by extreme anxiety which can significantly impact individuals and their families.
Despite growing awareness and research, many individuals with PDA struggle to receive appropriate support due to a lack of formal diagnostic recognition. This results in misdiagnosis, inadequate interventions, and a lack of tailored resources. Formal recognition will lead to earlier diagnosis, better understanding, and improved outcomes for individuals and their families.
Why it was rejected
It asked for something that is not the responsibility of the UK Government or Parliament.
We can only accept petitions about things the Government or Parliament are directly responsible for.
Decisions about classification of diseases and conditions are a matter for the World Health Organisation, not the UK Government or Parliament.
You could start a petition about specific policy changes you would like relating to Pathological Demand Avoidance.
Decisions about classification of diseases and conditions are a matter for the World Health Organisation, not the UK Government or Parliament.
You could start a petition about specific policy changes you would like relating to Pathological Demand Avoidance.
Timeline
| 31 Dec 2024 | Petition opened for signatures |
| 27 Feb 2025 | Rejected by the Petitions Committee |
Key facts
Signatures
21
Status
Rejected
Rejected
27 Feb 2025
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Source: the official petition page. Last checked 27 Jul 2026.