In recent years, the concept of neurodiversity has reshaped how we understand and support individuals with different neurological profiles, including autism, ADHD, and other cognitive variations. Rather than viewing these conditions as deficits, the neurodiversity-affirming approach recognizes them as natural variations of human thinking and behavior. When it comes to speech-language pathology, especially in the area of pragmatic language, this perspective calls for goals that respect individuality, build on existing strengths, and avoid pushing individuals to conform to neurotypical norms. Instead of correcting, these goals aim to support meaningful communication and authentic self-expression.
Understanding Pragmatic Language in a Neurodiverse Context
What Is Pragmatic Language?
Pragmatic language refers to the use of language in social contexts. It includes understanding conversational rules, using appropriate tone and body language, taking turns in conversation, interpreting implied meanings, and adapting language for different audiences. For neurodivergent individuals, pragmatic language challenges may stem from neurological differences rather than a lack of intelligence or willingness to communicate.
Why a Neurodiversity-Affirming Approach Matters
Traditional speech goals have often focused on making neurodivergent individuals appear more neurotypical. This can lead to masking where individuals suppress their natural communication style to fit social expectations. Masking is exhausting and may lead to anxiety, burnout, and a weakened sense of identity. Neurodiversity-affirming goals shift the focus from fixing to empowering, helping individuals develop communication strategies that are both effective and authentic.
Principles of Neurodiversity-Affirming Goal Setting
Individualized Support
Every neurodivergent person communicates differently. Pragmatic language goals should be tailored to the individual’s communication preferences, sensory needs, and comfort level. Standardized benchmarks do not always apply. Instead, success is defined by the individual’s ability to communicate in ways that feel natural and effective for them.
Strength-Based Language
Instead of focusing on deficits, use language that highlights abilities and growth. For example, rather than writing a goal like Will maintain eye contact during conversation, a neurodiversity-affirming goal would be Will use preferred methods (e.g., eye contact, gestures, scripts, AAC) to indicate engagement during conversation.
Functional and Meaningful Outcomes
Goals should have real-world relevance. Teaching someone to use scripted greetings might not be helpful if they don’t enjoy small talk. Instead, support them in setting boundaries, requesting help, or expressing opinions in ways that matter to them. Communication should serve the individual’s needs, not merely meet societal expectations.
Examples of Neurodiversity-Affirming Pragmatic Language Goals
Collaborative Goal Writing
Involve the individual (and caregivers if appropriate) in the process of setting goals. What do they want to be able to say or do? What situations are difficult or important for them? From their answers, develop goals that respect their autonomy and goals.
Sample Goal Areas
- Self-advocacy: Will use a preferred communication method to express when they need a break in 4 out of 5 observed opportunities.
- Conversation participation: Will participate in shared conversations by initiating or responding in a way that is comfortable for them (e.g., spoken language, AAC, or gestures).
- Understanding boundaries: Will identify and respect personal boundaries by recognizing cues and using preferred methods to ask for consent during peer interactions.
- Emotional expression: Will communicate feelings using a preferred strategy (visual supports, emotion boards, verbal expression) in 3 different settings.
- Perspective-taking without coercion: Will recognize that others may have different thoughts or feelings by discussing examples in stories, videos, or role plays in a nonjudgmental setting.
Using Visual Supports and Alternative Communication
Supporting Different Communication Styles
Neurodiversity-affirming goals welcome various forms of communication beyond speech. Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC), sign language, scripts, visual schedules, and typing should all be considered valid forms of communication. The goal is not to replace a person’s way of communicating, but to expand their options and support flexibility.
Incorporating Supports into Therapy
- Use comic strip conversations to help individuals explore different perspectives without forcing conformity.
- Visual cue cards or emotion wheels can assist with expressing feelings during difficult conversations.
- Role-playing can help practice advocacy skills in safe and supportive environments.
Respecting Sensory and Social Boundaries
Understanding Sensory Preferences
Many neurodivergent individuals are sensitive to sound, light, or touch. These sensory needs can affect how and when communication happens. Goals should accommodate these factors, not ignore them. For example, if someone is overwhelmed by noise, therapy might focus on using noise-canceling headphones or requesting quiet time before engaging socially.
Honoring Social Autonomy
Social interaction can be draining. A child who prefers parallel play or an adult who avoids small talk isn’t being antisocial they may simply have different social needs. Goals should reflect this diversity and allow room for self-directed engagement. For instance, Will choose when and how to join group activities based on comfort level affirms autonomy while encouraging communication.
Promoting Authentic Social Relationships
Quality Over Quantity
Rather than teaching individuals to be sociable for its own sake, support them in forming meaningful connections. One close friendship can be more valuable than many superficial interactions. Goals should promote relationships that are respectful, reciprocal, and satisfying.
Teaching Consent and Agency
Empowering individuals to say no, express disinterest, or leave uncomfortable situations is crucial. Neurodiversity-affirming pragmatic language goals include the right to disengage. For example, Will signal the desire to stop a conversation using verbal or nonverbal cues with peers or adults encourages self-protection and respect.
Training for Families and Educators
Creating Supportive Environments
Neurodivergent individuals thrive when their environment understands and supports them. Families, teachers, and peers benefit from learning about neurodiversity and how to respond supportively to different communication styles. Therapists can include goals related to caregiver coaching and community education.
Shifting Expectations
Helping families understand that communication success does not mean passing as typical is essential. Supporting authentic expression builds confidence and fosters stronger, more respectful relationships.
Neurodiversity-affirming pragmatic language goals represent a shift toward compassion, respect, and empowerment in speech-language therapy. These goals recognize that communication is deeply personal and that success looks different for every individual. By centering the needs, preferences, and strengths of neurodivergent people, we move away from outdated models and toward a more inclusive and humane practice. As we continue to learn from neurodivergent voices, our approaches can become more aligned with real-world communication and genuine human connection.