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The PDA Paradox

The PDA Paradox

Harry Thompson | Felicity Evans

(2019)

Additional Information

Book Details

Abstract

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 readers 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.


Harry Thompson is a millennial diagnosed with PDA, who has lived in both the UK and the US. He has a YouTube channel dedicated to PDA and neurodiversity with a strong number of followers.

Table of Contents

Section Title Page Action Price
The PDA Paradox 3
Contents 7
Foreword 9
Preface 11
Chapter 1 - Gratitude? I Think Not! 17
Chapter 2 - So What the Devil is this PDA Malarkey Anyway? 21
Chapter 3 - Mother and The Beast 27
Chapter 4 - ‘School’ 43
Chapter 4 (and a half...) - A Brief, Yet Necessary, Digression 79
Chapter 4 (resumed) - 'School' 89
Chapter 5 - ‘Pretending to be Something I’m Not in Pursuit of Green, Rectangular Pieces of Paper’ 115
Chapter 6 - Coexisting with Other Living Things on a Blue and Green Speck of Dust Hurtling Through Space 167
Chapter 7 - Inhale and Exhale 179
A Final Note from the Author’s Mother 183
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