Social Communication Disorder: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment

Many people with social communication disorder know what they want to say, but not how to say it. They may find it difficult to understand social cues, follow conversations, or use the right tone. This can lead to daily challenges in school, work, and relationships. 

Social communication disorder affects how people use language in social settings, not their ability to speak or understand words. 

In this blog, we’ll explore what social communication disorder is, its symptoms and causes, how it differs from autism, and the treatment options that can support better communication.

What Is Social Communication Disorder?

Social communication disorder (SCD) is a condition where someone struggles to use language in social settings. They may understand words and speak clearly, but still find it hard to connect during conversations. It’s not about grammar, it’s about knowing how to say things and when to say them. Over time, these challenges can lead to depression and anxiety, especially when social situations become overwhelming or isolating.

This includes skills like:

• Taking turns in a conversation

• Reading tone, facial expressions, and gestures

• Saying things in a way that fits the situation

SCD can appear in early childhood or even later. Some people develop coping strategies, but many need extra support to succeed at school, work, or in relationships. Early identification and the right guidance can make a big difference.

Social Communication Disorder Symptoms

So, how do you know if someone has it?

The signs can vary, but here are some common social communication disorder symptoms to look out for:

• Struggling to stay on topic in a conversation

• Not picking up on social cues like facial expressions or tone

• Speaking in a very formal, robotic, or flat tone

• Taking jokes, sarcasm, or teasing too literally

• Difficulty making or keeping friends

In kids, this might look like nonstop talking, or hardly talking at all. They may interrupt often or miss when someone wants to speak. In adults, symptoms can be more subtle. You might notice awkward timing in conversations, frequent misunderstandings, or responses that feel out of place.

These struggles can lead to frustration, low confidence, and even depression and anxiety. But the right support can make everyday communication easier and more natural.

Causes of Social Communication Disorder

There isn’t one clear cause of social communication disorder. It often develops from a mix of factors. Some people are born with brain differences that affect how they process language and social cues. Others may have a history of delayed language development or learning challenges.

Genetics may also play a role. The chances might be higher if a close family member has communication or developmental issues.

In some cases, SCD is linked to other conditions like ADHD, traumatic brain injury, or developmental delays. But it can also appear on its own.

Autism vs Social Communication Disorder

Autism and social communication disorder (SCD) share some overlapping traits, but they are not the same. Both conditions involve challenges with social communication, but autism includes additional features that SCD does not.

Here’s a clear comparison:

Similarities:

• Difficulty with conversations

• Trouble understanding body language, tone, and social rules

• Literal interpretation of language

Key Differences:

• Autism includes:

  • Repetitive behaviors (e.g., hand-flapping, lining up objects)

  • Restricted interests or routines

  • Sensory sensitivities (to sounds, textures, lights, etc.)

    
    

• SCD does not include:

  • Repetitive behaviors

  • Sensory issues

  • Strong fixations or rigid patterns

In simple terms, if someone has social communication challenges without repetitive behaviors or sensory processing differences, they may be diagnosed with SCD rather than autism.

It’s important to get a proper evaluation, since the treatment approach can vary. Understanding the difference helps families, teachers, and therapists offer the right kind of support.

Social Communication Disorder in Adults

You might think this condition only affects kids. But social communication disorder in adults is real, and often goes unnoticed.

Many adults grow up without a diagnosis. They may always feel like they “don’t fit in” or are “too blunt.” Others get diagnosed later in life, after years of challenges at work or in relationships.

Some common signs in adults include:

• Trouble with small talk or networking

• Misunderstanding tone in emails or texts

• Being too direct or too vague

• Feeling left out in group settings

This can lead to bigger issues. Some struggle with depression and anxiety because of constant social stress. Others avoid talking to people altogether.

There’s even a link between SCD and common behavioral issues in adults, like poor time management or quick frustration. Ever wonder why are adults always impatient? Sometimes, it’s because they can’t express themselves clearly or don’t understand others well.

The good news? It’s never too late to get help.

Social Communication Disorder Treatment

So, what helps?

Social communication disorder treatment is not one-size-fits-all. Each person has different needs, but the main goal is to improve how they connect with others in real life.

Here are proven, effective treatment options:

1. Speech Therapy

Helps individuals learn how to use language socially, like knowing when to speak, how to respond, and how to stay on topic.

2. ABA Therapy

While often linked to autism, ABA and speech therapy can also help people with SCD build social habits through structured practice and positive reinforcement.

3. Social Skills Groups

Group settings provide a safe space to role-play, share, and practice reading facial expressions, tone, and body language.

4. Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

Supports emotional regulation, helping people manage stress, anxiety, or frustration during social interactions.

5. Therapy for Adults

Adults may need help with job interviews, casual conversations, or even emails. Therapy for adults with social disorder focuses on real-world communication skills, often overlooked but deeply important.

And yes, ABA therapy can be a life-changing move, even for those without autism. When personalized and well-delivered, it gives people tools that matter in day-to-day life, whether they’re navigating a classroom or leading a meeting.

Activities That Can Help

Support doesn’t end at the clinic. You can bring it home, too. There are many activities to improve social communication with autism that also work well for SCD.

Try:

• Practicing facial expressions and body language in front of a mirror

• Reading stories and talking about what the characters feel

• Playing games that involve turn-taking or teamwork

• Role-playing real-life scenarios like ordering food or making a phone call

These fun, low-pressure ways make learning feel natural, not forced.

School and Workplace Tips

Kids with SCD might struggle in class. They may interrupt, zone out, or say the wrong thing. Teachers can help by:

• Giving clear, step-by-step instructions

• Using visual supports or checklists

• Allowing extra time for group tasks

At work, adults may need support too. This might mean:

• Email communication instead of phone calls

• Written schedules

• Coaching on social norms

Understanding goes a long way. SCD isn’t laziness or being rude. It’s a real difference in how people connect.

When to Seek Help

If you or your child struggles with social talk, don’t wait. Early support makes a big difference. Even adults who’ve felt misunderstood for years can learn new ways to connect.

Start by talking to your doctor or a licensed speech-language pathologist. They’ll guide you toward the right assessments and services.

And remember, you don’t need to “fix” everything overnight. Progress is possible. One small step at a time.

Conclusion

Social communication disorder affects how people talk, listen, and connect. It can make everyday moments harder, but there’s hope. With the right support, anyone can improve their communication skills.

Whether you're a parent, a teacher, or someone who sees yourself in these words, know this: you're not alone. There's help out there. And growth is always possible.

If you’re looking for reliable support, personalized therapy, or just someone who truly understands, Pillar5 is here for you. Our team offers caring, expert help for both kids and adults navigating communication challenges. Let’s make conversations easier, together.

FAQs

1. What is social communication disorder?

Social communication disorder is a condition where a person struggles with using language in social settings. This includes things like understanding tone, taking turns in conversation, and reading body language.

2. How is social communication disorder different from autism?

While both involve communication challenges, autism also includes repetitive behaviors and sensory issues. Social communication disorder only affects how someone uses language socially.

3. Can adults have a social communication disorder?

Yes. Many adults have an undiagnosed social communication disorder and face challenges in relationships, work, or social settings. Support and therapy can still be effective.

4. What are the common symptoms of social communication disorder?

Symptoms include trouble staying on topic, taking things too literally, misunderstanding jokes or tone, and difficulty making or keeping friends.

5. What treatments help with social communication disorder?

Speech therapy, ABA therapy, social skills training, and cognitive-behavioral therapy are common treatments. These help improve everyday communication.

6. Can social communication disorder be treated at home, too?

Yes! Activities like role-playing, reading stories, and practicing facial expressions can support therapy and build confidence in real-world communication.