Individuals with PDA are typically socially manipulative with people, and therefore superficially socially skilled, which sets them apart from Autism and Asperger Syndrome.

I shall consider whether children and adults with pervasive developmental disorder can sometimes be rightly described as being malicious; how can this be recognised; and some ideas about management.

Operates a range of services for children with autism and their families based on sites in and around Nottingham. Phil Christie and Elizabeth Newson (who has conceived the PDA diagnosis) are clinical directors of the Early Years Diagnostic Centre.

Professor Newson argues that individuals with PDA have too much insight into other people's feelings, which they use to work out ways to distress them, to be part of the autistic spectrum. In other words, she suggests that they do have a theory of mind.

It would seem regrettable if new syndromes were to be used in clinical practice without consideration of whether an established psychiatric diagnosis would have been appropriate, as this will create confusion for parents and others involved.

The main role of the PDA Contact Group is to offer telephone support to parents of children with PDA. The group also offers advice and information to anyone living or working with a child or adult diagnosed with PDA.

Demand avoidance using social manipulation is seen in all children, which strongly contrasts with the features of autistic spectrum disorders.

People with PDA do not understand the concept of social identity, and therefore there is no concept of social obligation.