An individual may say words clearly and use long, complex sentences with correct grammar, but still have a communication problem - they may not have mastered the 'rules for social language' known as pragmatics. Pragmatic skills are important for building social relationships with other children, and involve three major communication skills:

 

Using language for different purposes

• greeting (e.g., hello, goodbye)

• informing (e.g. I'm going to get a biscuit)

• demanding (e.g., Give me a biscuit)

• promising (e.g., I'm going to get you a biscuit)

• requesting (e.g., I would like a biscuit, please)

 

Changing or adapting language according to the needs of a listener or situation

• talking differently to a baby than to an adult

• talking louder where there is lots of noise

• being aware of the listener’s knowledge and giving more information or less when needed

• giving background information to an unfamiliar listener

• speaking differently in a classroom than on a playground etc.

 

Following the 'unspoken' rules for conversations and storytelling

• taking turns in conversation

• introducing topics of conversation

• staying on topic

• rephrasing when misunderstood

• using verbal and nonverbal language

• standing an appropriate distance from the speaker

 

It is not unusual for children to have pragmatic problems in only a few situations. However, if problems in social language use occur often and seem inappropriate considering the child's age, a pragmatic disorder may exist.

 

Assessing your child for an Social Pragmatic Disorder

A diagnostic assessment for a Social Pragmatic Disorder may be recommended if there are concerns regarding your child's pragmatic language and/or social communication skills.