Social (Pragmatic) Communication Disorder (SPCD) is where children experience persistent difficulties with verbal and nonverbal communication.

Challenges include:

Ψ Difficulty in interpreting nonverbal communication cues (e.g., facial expressions, body language)

Ψ Trouble adjusting communication to fit situations (initiating or maintaining conversations)

Ψ Trouble following rules of conversations (e.g., taking turns)

Ψ Difficulty understanding nonliteral or ambiguous language (metaphors/idioms)

Ψ Use of inappropriate responses during conversations

To be diagnosed with SCPD, children must present with the symptoms in early childhood, even if they are not recognized until later when their speech, language, or communication skills fall behind their peers.

Social Pragmatic Communication Disorder (SPCD) vs. Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)?

SPCD and ASD share some characteristics. Nonetheless, SPCD primarily focuses on communication problems while ASD relates to behavioural traits. Here are some key differences:

Of note, as social communication difficulties are a defining feature of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), an official diagnosis

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