What is a social communication disorder & how are people affected by it?

A pragmatic language disorder, also known as a social communication disorder, is a type of communication disorder that affects a person's ability to communicate effectively in social situations. Kids, teens, and adults with a pragmatic language disorder may experience various degrees of difficulties in different areas of social communication, like:

• Understanding social cues 

• Understanding unstated expectations of different situations and audiences

• Following rules of conversation, like how to start or keep the conversation going or taking turns while talking

• Making and keeping friends

These difficulties may negatively affect family dynamics, friendships and relationships. 

A social communication disorder may even have impacts on a person’s academic and professional performance on tasks that require social language skills, like working with a group on a project or presenting in front of a crowd. 

“Social skill struggles can impact overall life satisfaction and lead to feeling lonely and isolated. ”

Someone who struggles with social interactions may feel isolated, socially anxious, and may have a lack of confidence in their ability to talk to people and make meaningful connections with others.

It's important to note that a pragmatic language / social communication disorder is not related to intelligence, and people who struggle with social interactions may in fact have average or above-average intelligence. 

A pragmatic language disorder is often diagnosed in childhood, but may also be identified later in life.

Some people may experience social difficulties throughout their entire lives, but do not have a diagnosis and have found ways around their struggles. 

We are social beings, and many people want to find others they genuinely connect with and trust. This can be a challenging task when social interactions don’t come easily.

The support of a speech therapist through social skills coaching can be a helpful way to learn interaction skills that can help you achieve your social communication goals and live a fulfilling social life!  

With the right strategies and treatment plan, people of all ages with a pragmatic language disorder can learn to navigate social interactions more effectively and improve their overall communication skills.

It's important to remember that everyone communicates differently, and there is no "right" or "wrong" way to communicate.

With patience, understanding, and support, individuals with a pragmatic language disorder can thrive in social situations and achieve their goals!