Communication Overview

WHAT?

Communication is "a process by which information is exchanged between individuals through a common system of symbols, signs, or behavior." It involves verbal language (speech, writing, listening, and reading), nonverbal language (pictures, sign language, etc.), and nonverbal communication (eye movements, facial expressions, and body movements).

WHEN?

Communication happens when one person interacts with another person. Based on a child's communication ability, a child could:

- speak spontaneously
- when a prompt or a cue was given, or
- imitate from a model

HOW?

Forms of Communication

We usually associate communication with language, but communication means more than just language. Humans can communicate with all their senses and with body movements. Some forms of communication can involve:

Natural gestures
      - Reaching, touching, pointing, waving

Vocalizations
     - Crying, babbling, vowel sounds

Body language
     - Taking person's hand, showing facial expression, gazing

Symbols
     - Spoken words, sign language, pictures, writing, braille, electronic devices

 

WHY?

Functions of Communication

There are two main reasons why we communicate:

- To regulate other people's behavior, to ask other people to do or not to do things, & to get something. The consequences would normally be to obtain a desired object or event.

- To socialize, to comment or to share information. The consequence of this type of communication is social attention.

Additional reasons include:

- Requesting food and objects
- Requesting activities
- Protesting or rejecting
- Commenting on something
- Asking and answering questions
- Greeting
- Engaging in conversation