How to improve pragmatic skills

Pragmatic language refers to the social language skills that we use in our daily interactions with others. This includes what we say, how we say it, our non-verbal communication (eye contact, facial expressions, body language etc.) Pragmatic skills are vital for communicating our personal thoughts, ideas and feelings.

The main difference between semantics and pragmatics is that the semantics studies the meaning of words and their meaning within sentences whereas the pragmatics studies the same words and meanings but with emphasis on their context as well. Both semantics and pragmatics are two main branches of study in linguistics.

1. Develop your language skills. The most important step toward developing strong pragmatics is to develop your language skills.
2. Improve your nonverbal communication.
3. Apply executive functioning.
4. Use self-regulation techniques to help you adapt.
5. Reach out for feedback and ask questions.

While there is no cure for social communication disorder, there are treatments. Speech and language pathologists are trained to recognize and design treatment for communication problems like SCD. Teachers and speech-language pathologists often work together to help children better their communication skills.

Social communication problems are a hallmark symptom of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), however SCD can occur in individuals who do not meet the diagnostic criteria for ASD. People with both SCD and ASD have more than social communication difficulties; ASD also includes restricted or repetitive behaviors.

Genetic factors appear to play a major role and individuals who have a family history of Autism Spectrum Disorder, Communication Disorders, or Specific Learning Disorders are more likely to have a SCD diagnosis.

Signs and symptoms of social communication disorder include deficits in social interaction, social cognition, and pragmatics (see ASHA’s resource on components of social communication [PDF]). making and keeping close friendships.

A communication disorder may result in a primary disability or it may be secondary to other disabilities. A speech disorder is an impairment of the articulation of speech sounds, fluency and/or voice.

In the DSM-5, ASD is a new diagnostic category in the Neurodevelopmental Disorders section, characterized by impairments in social communication and social reciprocity and by the presence of restricted interests and repetitive behaviors.

That said, the inclusion of SCD into DSM-5 sends a signal to the courts that SCD is a valid disorder that can cause significant impairment in social and occupational functioning and that may, depending upon the circumstances, serve as the underlying basis for claims under the ADA.

How is Social (Pragmatic) Communication Disorder diagnosed? SCD is diagnosed based on difficulties with both verbal and non-verbal social communication skills.

The main treatment for SCD is speech-language therapy. Speech-language therapists can work with kids on conversation skills either one-on-one or in small groups. They might use role-playing games or visuals like comic books. Social skills groups can also help kids with SCD improve their communication skills.