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Pragmatics Language
(Social Communication)
What is Pragmatics (Social Communication)?
Social communication or pragmatics refers to the way in which children
use language within social situations. Social language includes
three different components:
1. The ability to use language for different purposes;
2. The ability to adapt language to meet the needs of the
listener or situation;
3. Following the often “unspoken” rules of conversation.
Characteristics of problems with social communication?
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Difficulty making friends
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Difficulty staying on topic during conversation
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Inappropriately gaining attention of others (e.g. interrupting)
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Standing too close to a person; lack of personal space
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Conversations are disorganized
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Inappropriate eye contact during conversations
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Not listening during a conversation
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Dominating the conversation
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Not knowing how to ask for clarification
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Inability to interpret the tone of voice of others
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Limited use of language (e.g. only making statements)
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Difficulty in "perspective-taking"
Why should I seek therapy if I notice difficulties with social communication (pragmatics)?
Therapeutic intervention can help a child:
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Learn how to engage appropriately with others during play, conversation and personal interactions;
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Learn how to make friends;
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Learn how to respond appropriately during interactions with both familiar and unfamiliar people;
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Be aware of the social norms of social conduct and social interaction
If you have concerns about your child's receptive language skills, schedule a consultation with one of our pediatric Speech Language Pathologists.