Pragmatic or Social Language Skills

 
 

What is Pragmatic Language?

Pragmatic language refers to the social use of language—how we use words and body language to communicate effectively and appropriately in different social situations.

It includes:

  • Using language for different purposes (greeting, requesting, informing)

  • Changing language based on the listener or situation (talking to a teacher vs. a friend)

  • Following rules for conversation and storytelling (taking turns, staying on topic, using facial expressions and eye contact)

  • Making inferences and solving problems

What are Pragmatic Language Disorders?
A pragmatic language disorder is a difficulty with the social aspects of communication. It may also be called a social communication disorder.

Children with pragmatic language difficulties may:

  • Talk "off-topic" or interrupt frequently

  • Struggle with understanding sarcasm, jokes, or nonverbal cues

  • Have trouble making and keeping friends

  • Use language in ways that seem awkward or inappropriate

  • Not know how to navigate social problems or conflicts

The Role of the Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP)

Evaluation -- SLPs assess a child’s ability to:

  • Participate in conversations (enter, maintain topics, exit)

  • Understand and follow along in social situations

  • Interpret and use a variety of communication styles

  • Understand problems and generate solutions

Assessment tools may include observation, checklists, caregiver input, and standardized tests.

Treatment -- SLPs design personalized therapy to:

  • Build social language skills through role-play, games, and 1:1 interaction

  • Teach understanding of figurative language, tone, and body language

  • Improve conversation skills like topic maintenance and turn-taking

Therapy often includes collaboration with families, teachers, and other professionals to support generalization across settings.


If a child frequently misunderstands social cues, struggles with peer relationships, or uses language in ways that seem “off,” a referral to an SLP can provide clarity and support.