12 Communication Styles
Learning Objectives
- To understand different types of communication.
- To be aware of communication differences when working in a neurodiverse team.
- To understand the accommodations you can make to support the communication styles of everyone in your team.
Communication Differences
Work through this interactive activity to develop an understanding of the types of communication, and how communication can be different in a neurodiverse team.
Created by Teagan Menhenett, © Deakin University 2024, licensed under CC-BY-NC.
Copyright note: The images in the above activity are used under the Pixabay Content License.
It is important to looking at the differences between neurotypical and neurodivergent communication so we can understand why everyone communicates differently. Unfortunately, sometimes we focus on these differences and decide “it’s all too hard”. This can lead to groups lacking understanding and a shared language when working together. Team members can be excluded or ignored and overall, the team experience is generally negative.
So, what can we do about it?
Enhancing Team Communication
Work through the next activity to look at some ways simple ways you can enhance team communication. Remember, clear and direct communication is always the easiest way to ensure effective communication. The activity was informed by McCrum (2023) and Hamilton and Petty (2023).
Created by Teagan Menhenett, © Deakin University 2024, licensed under CC-BY-NC.
Test Your Understanding
Created by Teagan Menhenett, © Deakin University 2024, licensed under CC-BY-NC.
Key Takeaways
- Communication is part of every interaction we have.
- Communication can look different for everyone.
- It is important to be respectful and accommodating of different communication styles
- Using clear and concise language is always helpful!
These are some of the words you may have come across in this chapter:
Comprising of both neurotypical and neurodivergent brains.
Communication is the process of transferring information from one person to another (or to multiple people). Communication can be verbal, non-verbal or written.
Masking is the process of adapting, changing or hiding ones natural behaviours or way of being in order to 'fit in' or appear 'socially acceptable'.
The repetitive use of an object, such as flicking a rubber band, picking your fingers, using a fidget toy, or actions such rocking or jumping.
