Declarative Language with Linda K. Murphy

About this episode

This episode explores how declarative language can support PDA children and young people, emphasizing communication strategies that reduce anxiety and promote autonomy.

In this episode, Gemini from the PDA Society is joined by Linda Murphy, author of The Declarative Language Handbook and The Co-Regulation Handbook, to explore how declarative language can support PDA children and young people. Linda explains the difference between declarative and imperative language, and why shifting from telling and directing to wondering and noticing can reduce anxiety and defensiveness. The conversation explores how questions, commands and corrections can inadvertently increase demand sensitivity, particularly for children with a PDA profile. Gemini and Linda discuss how declarative language creates space for autonomy, supports problem-solving, and strengthens connection. Rather than giving instructions, declarative statements share observations, feelings or information, allowing the child to process and respond without feeling controlled. Part 1 focuses on understanding the principles behind declarative language, how it supports co-regulation, and why small shifts in communication can have a powerful impact in both home and school settings. Key Themes * The difference between declarative and imperative language * How direct instructions can increase anxiety…

People in this episode

Host: Gemini

Guest: Linda K. Murphy

Topics covered

• declarative language
• PDA children
• communication strategies
• co-regulation
• anxiety reduction
• autonomy support

Keywords

• declarative language
• PDA
• communication
• anxiety
• co-regulation
• autonomy
• problem-solving

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: PDA Society

Books & works: The Declarative Language Handbook, The Co-Regulation Handbook

More episodes of PDA Society Podcast

• PDA and the Biology of Sleep · June 11, 2026 · 20 min
• Finding therapeutic support as a PDA parent · June 4, 2026 · 36 min
• Animal therapy for children with SEND · May 28, 2026 · 29 min
• The Hidden harm of School Behaviour Policies · May 21, 2026 · 32 min
• Why Diagnosis Matters for PDA Adults · May 14, 2026 · 30 min
• OT solutions for PDA · April 30, 2026 · 41 min