Do I Have Social (Pragmatic) Communication Disorder?

Do you show difficulties in using communication for social purposes (e.g., greeting, sharing information)?

Do you show impairment of the ability to change communication to match context or the needs of the listener (e.g., speaking differently in a classroom than on a playground)?

Do you show difficulties following rules for conversation and storytelling (e.g., taking turns in conversation, knowing how to use (non)verbal signals to regulate interaction)?

Do you show difficulties understanding what is not explicitly stated (e.g., inferring) and non literal or ambiguous meanings of language (e.g., humor, metaphors)?

Do the problems described in the preceding questions result in functional limitations in effective communication, social participation and relationships, academic success and/or occupational performance?

Did the symptoms start in the early developmental period (i.e., early childhood)?

Can you confirm that the symptoms are not attributable to another medical or neurological condition or to low abilities in the domains of word structure and grammar and are not better explained by autism spectrum disorder, intellectual disability or another mental disorder?

It is unlikely that you have social/pragmatic communication disorder.

It is unlikely you have social communication disorder. However, you are displaying some signs of deficits in communication. Social communication disorder can cause additional problems, such as issues in social settings, in developing relationships and in academic or work-related performance. If you are not sure about your symptom(s), it may be important to seek medical attention.

While it is unlikely that you have social communication disorder, you are displaying some signs of social communication problems. Scheduling an appointment with your doctor may be an essential next step. Your doctor will conduct a screening which usually includes an interview, observations, self-reports and reports from significant others. Also, your doctor will make sure to rule out hearing problems as a contributing factor to social communication problems.

Unfortunately, you are displaying symptoms typically seen among individuals who have social communication disorder. It is recommended to make an appointment with your doctor as soon as possible. Your doctor must rule out hearing loss and autism before reaching a diagnosis of social communication disorder. Luckily, there are several treatment options to help you function better. Strategies may focus on teaching new skills individually, but also group interventions may be important to practice social skills. The emphasis is on increasing engagement in communication situations. Professional help is necessary to develop proper social communication skills.