What is Social (Pragmatic) Communication Disorder?
Social (Pragmatic) Communication Disorder (SCD) is a diagnosis characterized by impairment in communication for social purposes. This diagnosis is given when an individual has difficulty using verbal and/or non
What is Social (Pragmatic) Communication Disorder?
Social (Pragmatic) Communication Disorder (SCD) is a diagnosis characterized by impairment in communication for social purposes. This diagnosis is given when an individual has difficulty using verbal and/or nonverbal communication that is appropriate for the social context. Individuals with this disorder may present with difficulties across a number of areas of social communication including:
- Social greetings, such as saying hello or introducing oneself
- Sharing personal information and general knowledge
- Modifying communication based on characteristics of the listener; for example, understanding that one interacts differently with a young child versus an adult, and differently with a close friend versus an acquaintance
- Taking turns in conversation, which includes difficulty responding to others in conversation, staying on topic, or allowing the other person an opportunity to speak
- Changing communication to match the behavior of the listener or the context of the situation
- Using gestures in conversation, such as pointing or waving
- Understanding various forms of nonverbal communication
- Understanding aspects of verbal communication that are not explicitly stated; for example, difficulty understanding implied and indirect uses of language, such as metaphors and humor
These challenges lead to impairment across a number of areas. In addition to having challenges connecting and interacting with peers, these symptoms often cause challenges in educational and occupational functioning.
Why am I just hearing about Social Communication Disorder now?
Social Communication Disorder (SCD) was introduced to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) for the first time in the most recent update (DSM-5) in 2013. Prior to this time, individuals who demonstrated these symptoms may not have been accurately diagnosed or identified. Before the introduction of SCD into the DSM-5 some of the individuals who 