Bilateral Communication
Communication is inherently a two-way process of sharing information between two or more people.
Communication serves many functions and can be purposeful, passive or indirect or the expression of self without the aim of communicating a specific message with others.
New research into neurodivergent social communication suggests that social difficulties are bi-directional in nature and often due to a mutual misunderstanding between people of different neurotypes rather than the result of neurodivergent specific social difficulties.
Neuro-affirming communication practice focuses on creating supportive environments through increased understanding that there are many ways of communicating. Differences in communication include eye contact, facial expressions, body language, voice tone and volume.
When we reframe social communication difficulties to communication difference, we create new definitions for understanding communication and interaction. From this standpoint we can connect with others and strengthen relationships through seeking information about an individual’s communication style, preferences and needs for meaningful interaction.
A neuro-affirming approach to bi-lateral communication support:
centers on neurodivergent individuals and the people they communicate with
seeks clarity and understanding between all communication partners
focuses on the function (not form) of communication from the individual’s perspective
ensures shared decision-making with the individual
evaluates how others respond, support or offer flexibility to engage in ways the individual needs
is taught and reinforced in natural environments
When evaluating social communication support for neurodivergent individuals, it’s important to ask, does this goal/strategy acknowledge the individual’s strengths, perspectives and ways of doing things?
The goal should not be to progress in a manner that is consistent with expectations of typical development, but to progress in a way that reflects what is essential or important to the individual.