Social and Pragmatic Language Disorders
Pragmatic language disorder involves difficulty with the social use of language. Children with pragmatic language difficulties may have age-appropriate grammar and vocabulary but struggle with how to use language in social situations.
Skills Involved in Pragmatic Language
- Understanding and following conversation rules (turn-taking, topic maintenance)
- Initiating and maintaining friendships
- Understanding nonverbal communication (facial expressions, body language)
- Understanding perspective-taking (what others know or feel)
- Using language appropriately for different contexts and listeners
- Understanding figurative language, sarcasm, and humor
- Problem-solving in social situations
Signs of Pragmatic Difficulties
- Difficulty making or keeping friends
- Talking excessively or only about their interests
- Difficulty understanding social cues or others' feelings
- Difficulty adjusting communication to different listeners or situations
- May appear socially awkward or inappropriate
Treatment
Pragmatic/social language therapy focuses on teaching social rules, conversation skills, perspective-taking, and problem-solving through direct instruction, coaching, role-play, and real-world practice.