There are many correct ways to communicate, but our society tends to emphasize “words of mouth” or words spoken out loud through the mouth. When a person does not communicate in this way, they often come across stigmadenied autonomy and resulting infantilization. Unfortunately, even trained providers engage in such harmful behaviors, such as talking about a client when they are not present or as if they do not understand because the client is not speaking as loudly as we would expect.
There are many different reasons why a person may not use verbal cues, and many people do not understand the differences. Find out more about non-verbal communication and how to support and communicate with people with different communication needs.
Individuals who do not speak
A non-verbal person does not use spoken words to communicate. They can make noise and express words, but they are not prone to loud conversations as neurotypical society would expect. Some use terms like non-verbal or minimally speaking.
An anonymous person may use sign language, written language, or a message board to express themselves.
(Note: The term “nonverbal” was previously used to describe nonverbalization, but many experiences and advocates have pushed the term nonverbalization because it’s more affirming and doesn’t hold the stigma of nonverbalization.)
People who have lost their speech
A loss of speech is different from speechlessness because a person with a loss of speech has the ability to use spoken words at other times. For example, some autistic people report losing the ability to speak out loud during periods of extreme arousal or episodes tiredness.
Losing speech is not the same as simply choosing to remain silent. Some people with aphasia report that they struggle to speak with their mouths but can force themselves to do so at great cost (a form of masking). Others reported that they could not fully speak with their mouth until they were able to adjust and decompress from the closure.
If someone has a speech loss, they can use communication cards or other augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) methods that they can use as needed.
It is important to distinguish lost speech from speechless speech. If we put the two together, it can lead one to assume that one is a non-speaker possible use verbal words in the right context or simply “tried more”, which is wrong and harmful.
Selective mutism
Selective mutism is worry A disorder that causes the affected person to lose the ability to speak with their mouth during times of high anxiety. This often occurs in social settings, and some psychologists see it as a form of social anxiety.
Selective mutism differs from aphasia in that it is triggered by anxiety rather than extreme anxiety and closure. Those who experienced selective mutism reported that they were physically unable to use their words when anxiety arose. They can use communication boards or cards to meet the needs of others.
Summary
While people with different communication needs may benefit from similar aids, the reasons why someone communicates differently are different. It should not be assumed that a person does not choose to use a “difficult” or certain form of communication.
If you or a loved one uses alternative communication methods, you deserve to be heard and have your needs met. masking or meet neurotypical standards.
