Social communication is the ability to use language to connect with others. As a child grows they develop a strong vocabulary with correct grammar and structure of that vocabulary. Even when these areas are developed typically, sometimes the social use of those skills can be challenging. 

Social communication disorder (SCD) is characterized by difficulties with the use of verbal and nonverbal communication in social settings. This can affect how a person interacts with others, understands social cues, and uses language to communicate effectively. SCD is distinct from other communication disorders as it specifically relates to social interactions and is not solely about language production or comprehension.

Signs and Symptoms of Social Communication Disorder

Individuals with SCD may exhibit a variety of symptoms, including:

• Difficulty with social interactions: Struggling to understand and follow social norms, such as connecting topics in conversation or recognizing when someone is joking.
• Challenges with verbal and nonverbal communication: Differences when using appropriate greetings, adjusting language according to the context, and interpreting nonverbal cues like facial expressions and body language.
• Issues with narrative skills: Finding it hard to tell a story in a coherent manner, including providing enough detail and sequencing events logically.
• Difficulty understanding figurative language: Struggling with idioms, metaphors, and humor that are not meant to be taken literally.

These difficulties can impact a person’s ability to form and maintain friendships, succeed in school, and participate in social activities.

Causes and Diagnosis

The exact cause of SCD is not fully understood, but it is believed to be related to a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Diagnosis typically involves a comprehensive evaluation by a speech-language pathologist (SLP). The assessment includes:

• Parent and teacher interviews: Gathering information about the child's communication abilities in various settings.
• Standardized tests: Assessing the child's language skills, social understanding, and communication behaviors.
• Observation: Watching how the child interacts with peers and adults in naturalistic settings.

Treatment and Support

Support for social skills typically involves speech-language therapy focused on improving the patient’s desired social communication skills. It is incredibly important that social skill goals support a person’s strengths and that goals are patient-centered. Therapy should not focus on behaviorally training neurodivergent individuals into behaving in a neurotypical way - this is not meaningful and can cause harm by encouraging individuals to mask. Some individuals with social communication differences may not feel they need social communication therapy, and that’s okay too! S

• Social-Emotional Development: Supporting children in developing social emotional skills supports their ability to be aware of their own emotions and behavior, which in turn increases their ability to identify others’ emotions and behaviors. These skills can support connection and build social relationships!
• Role-playing and modeling: Some social skills therapy may include practicing social interactions in a controlled environment to build confidence and competence. These activities can help support and prepare individuals for unexpected situations.
• Collaborative approaches: Working with teachers, caregivers, and peers can create a supportive environment that fosters social communication.

How Parents Can Help

As a parent, you play a vital role in supporting your child's social communication development. Here are some ways you can help:

1. Encourage social interactions: Provide opportunities for your child to play and interact with peers in a variety of settings. Do not pressure them to engage with others if they are not ready, but instead provide meaningful opportunities so they can when they are ready!
2. Encourage their strengths: Support your child in their preferences and enhance their strengths! Never point out their social differences as a negative thing, it’s important we build confidence in communication!
3. Create a supportive environment: Foster a positive and accepting atmosphere where your child feels safe to express themselves and make mistakes.
4. Collaborate with professionals: Work closely with your child's SLP and other professionals to implement strategies and track progress.

Conclusion

Understanding social communication is essential for fostering authentic connections with communication partners. Social skill therapy may be beneficial for individuals who feel they would benefit from extra support in developing these skills that do not come naturally to them. With person-centered support and interventions, people with SCD can improve their social communication skills to encourage independence and confidence in their life!

If you have concerns about your or your child’s social communication abilities, book an evaluation with a Hona speech language pathologist to identify how therapy can help you or your child achieve their social goals!

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