What if “PDA Profile of ASD” advocates are confusing non-autism features with autism?

Since 2002 “Pathological Demand-Avoidance” (PDA) has been controversial and contested as a distinct diagnostic category. Despite lacking evidence from its small and often poor-quality research base, “PDA Profile of ASD” is a “culture-bound concept” in the United Kingdom. Some suggest that “PDA Profile of ASD” reattributes features of co-occurring difficulties, like ADHD, anxiety, oppositional defiant disorder, and conduct disorder, with autism. A thought experiment was conducted: What if “PDA Profile of ASD” advocates are confusing non-autism features with autism? The thought experiment predicts many aspects of “PDA Profile of ASD” advocacy efforts observed over recent years. It seems plausible, perhaps probable that “PDA Profile of ASD” advocates are confusing features of non-autism features with autism. “PDA Profile of ASD” provides an example of why it is important to follow typical ethical standards in autism advocacy. We must prioritise the integrity of the autism assessment category over “PDA Profile of ASD”.