Social Communication
Pragmatic (social) language is the social use of language: how we choose and use words, tone, body language, and conversational skills to communicate effectively with other people in different situations.
What social communication includes
What to say and how to say it
Knowing what to say and how to say it (e.g., polite vs casual, joking vs serious).
Social rules of conversation
Using and understanding social rules of conversation, such as taking turns, staying on topic, starting, maintaining, and ending a conversation, and repairing misunderstandings (e.g., 'Sorry, I meant...').
Implied meaning
Understanding implied meaning (reading between the lines), like sarcasm, hints, or indirect requests ('It's cold in here' meaning 'Can you close the window?').
Non-verbal communication
Using non-verbal communication (eye contact, facial expressions, gestures, personal space).
Adapting to the listener
Adapting language to the listener and context (talking differently to a teacher vs a friend).
Why social communication matters
Social language is important for forming friendships, maintaining conversations and interacting with others. Difficulties in this area directly lead to a communication breakdown.
Frequently asked
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Reach out today and one of our friendly clinicians will talk through your situation and the next steps. No waitlist, supporting all ages.