PDA & Eating Disorders: Why the Pervasive Drive for Autonomy Matters in Recovery

What if your “resistance” in eating disorder recovery isn’t resistance at all—but a deeply wired need for safety, control, and agency? In this solo episode, Dr. Marianne explores the intersection of PDA (Pervasive Drive for Autonomy) and eating disorders, especially in neurodivergent individuals navigating ARFID, anorexia, bulimia, or binge eating disorder. While traditional eating disorder treatment often emphasizes structure and compliance, these approaches can backfire for folks with a strong drive for autonomy.

We unpack what PDA actually is (hint: it’s not defiance), how it shows up in treatment spaces, and why honoring autonomy through co-regulation, collaboration, and consent can open the door to more sustainable recovery. You’ll also learn how internalized demands, sensory sensitivities, and trauma histories shape eating behaviors—and what truly affirming, flexible support looks like.

Whether you're a clinician, caregiver, or someone in recovery, this conversation offers insight into neurodivergent-affirming, autonomy-respecting care that centers safety instead of compliance.

👉 Learn more about my ARFID and Selective Eating Course for providers, adults with ARFID, and parents at https://www.drmariannemiller.com/arfid

CHECK OUT OTHER EPISODES ON NEURODIVERGENT-AFFIRMING, EATING DISORDER TREATMENT!

• The Invisible Hunger: How Masking Shows Up in Eating Disorder Recovery on Apple & Spotify.
• The Complexities of Treating ARFID: How a Neurodivergent-Affirming, Sensory-Attuned Approach Works on Apple & Spotify.
• Rejection Sensitivity Disorder (RSD) & Eating Disorders: The Emotional Toll of Feeling "Too Much" on Apple & Spotify.
• When Eating Disorder Care is NOT Neurodivergent-Affirming on Apple & Spotify.
• Personal Neurodivergent Stories on Apple & Spotify.

INTERESTED IN HANGING OUT MORE IN DR. MARIANNE-LAND?

• Follow me on Instagram @drmariannemiller
• Check out my virtual, self-paced ARFID and Selective Eating course
• Look into my self-paced, virtual, anti-diet, subscription-based curriculum. It is called Dr. Marianne-Land's Binge Eating Recovery Membership.
• Live in California, Texas, or Washington D.C. and interested in eating disorder therapy with me? Sign up for a free, 15-minute phone consultation HERE or via my website, and I'll get you to where you need to be!
• Check out my blog.
• Want more information? Email me at hello@mariannemiller.com