Navigating the Complex World of (Mis) Communication: A Neurodiverse Perspective

…whether it’s at work, home, or anywhere in between. But as essential as it is, communication can be incredibly complex. You could say the same sentence to two different people and find that they interpret it in entirely different ways. For neurodiverse individuals, this challenge is often magnified, leading to misunderstandings that can impact relationships, teamwork, and overall well-being.

So, why is communication so complicated? And how can we better understand it to foster clearer, more inclusive interactions; especially for neurodiverse individuals who might experience it differently? To answer this, let’s dive into the layers of communication, including the elements of sound, body language, and word choice, and explore why (mis)communication is common yet manageable.

Imagine saying, “I think this project will be challenging.” To one person, this could sound motivating, a call to action. To another, it could seem discouraging, like an obstacle. The exact same words can trigger very different emotions, highlighting just how subjective communication can be. Add neurodiversity into the mix, whether it’s ADHD, autism, dyslexia, or other neurodivergent experiences, and these differences in perception can become even more pronounced.

For neurodiverse individuals, understanding and interpreting communication cues can vary significantly. Subtleties like tone of voice, body language, or facial expressions might be difficult to read or even lead to sensory overload. Similarly, the words we choose can impact people differently, sparking positive or negative responses depending on the individual’s experiences, associations, and sensitivities.

When we communicate, we don’t just rely on words. Effective communication is a blend of three key elements: sound, body language, and words themselves. Each of these components plays a role in how messages are perceived and understood.

1. Sound (Tone and Pitch)

Sound in communication includes not only the words we say but also how we say them. Tone, pitch, and emphasis can completely alter the meaning of a sentence. For example, “You’re here early!” can sound like praise with a cheerful tone but could seem accusatory with a sharper tone.

The tone of voice often conveys unspoken emotions, from enthusiasm to frustration. However, neurodiverse individuals may interpret tone differently or may even have difficulty discerning subtle tonal shifts. For some, certain pitches or loud sounds may be overwhelming or distracting, making it harder to focus on the message itself. Recognising that tone can be a barrier—and adjusting it to a calm, steady delivery—can help improve understanding.

2. Body Language (Nonverbal Cues)

Body language makes up a significant portion of communication, conveying emotions and intentions beyond words. Gestures, facial expressions, posture, and eye contact all give additional context to spoken words. For instance, crossed arms might suggest defensiveness, while a relaxed posture might indicate openness.

Yet, reading and interpreting body language can be challenging for neurodiverse individuals. Some may struggle with eye contact, while others may find it hard to distinguish between subtle facial expressions. This can lead to missed cues or misinterpretations. For instance, someone might take a neutral expression as negative or struggle to interpret an encouraging nod.

In these situations, clear, verbal communication can bridge the gap where body language may not be easily read. Explicitly stating intentions, rather than relying on gestures, helps convey the message more clearly.

3. Words (Choice and Interpretation)

Words are powerful. The words we choose can evoke emotions, memories, and reactions unique to each individual. For instance, words like “challenge” may inspire one person but stress out another. In a neurodiverse context, certain words may have heightened associations or meanings that differ from neurotypical interpretations.

Understanding that word choice can elicit different reactions helps to approach conversations with sensitivity. Some neurodiverse individuals may take language more literally or may interpret expressions in unexpected ways. For instance, saying “break a leg” might be confusing for someone who hasn’t encountered the phrase before.

Choosing straightforward, clear language can aid in avoiding potential miscommunication. Additionally, if misunderstandings do arise, clarifying intent or asking follow-up questions can create a space for open dialogue.

Understanding (Mis)Communication Through a Neurodiverse Lens

Recognising the layered nature of communication can help us appreciate the neurodiverse perspective. For neurodiverse individuals, miscommunication often arises not because of a lack of understanding but because they process and interpret these communication layers differently. They might focus more on words and less on body language or pick up on tonal changes that others might overlook.

For instance, someone who struggles with reading body language may miss subtle cues, leading to a different understanding of the message. Alternatively, those sensitive to tone might feel overwhelmed in environments where emotions are conveyed loudly or abruptly. When we view communication as a multi-layered experience, it becomes easier to understand why two people can walk away from the same conversation with different interpretations.

While communication can be complex, there are ways to improve clarity and reduce misunderstandings. Here are some strategies that can make communication more inclusive for neurodiverse individuals:

1. Be Mindful of Tone

Since tone can alter the meaning of words, aim for a steady, clear, and calm tone when communicating, especially in professional settings. When emotions are high, it may be helpful to take a moment to compose yourself before speaking, ensuring that the message is conveyed as intended.

2. Use Direct and Explicit Language

Using straightforward language can reduce the likelihood of misunderstandings. Avoid idioms or ambiguous phrases that may be taken literally or misinterpreted. For example, rather than saying “we’re all on the same page,” try “we all agree on the plan.”

3. Supplement Verbal Communication with Written Follow-ups

Providing written summaries or follow-ups can help ensure everyone has a clear understanding of the message. This is especially useful for neurodiverse individuals who may need additional time to process information or prefer to review details at their own pace.

4. Encourage Questions and Clarification

Create an open environment where asking questions is encouraged. Miscommunication often happens when people feel they shouldn’t ask for clarification. By normalising questions, you allow individuals to check their understanding and avoid potential misunderstandings.

5. Practice Patience and Empathy

Recognise that communication is an ongoing process, and misunderstandings are natural. Practice patience and empathy, particularly if someone asks for clarification or processes information differently. Taking the time to understand their perspective can make a world of difference.

Effective communication is a skill that requires practice, understanding, and a willingness to adapt. For neurodiverse individuals, interpreting messages can come with additional challenges, from decoding tone to deciphering body language. By recognising these complexities and adopting strategies to promote clearer communication, we can build more inclusive workplaces and social environments.

After all, some of the best comedy out there is based on simple miscommunication—just think of classic sitcom scenes where a misunderstood phrase leads to hilariously tangled situations! But in the workplace, clarity is key. By improving our communication and embracing the nuances of neurodiverse perspectives, we can create a more supportive environment for everyone.

At Remtek Workplace, we focus on fostering an inclusive approach to communication that respects neurodiverse perspectives. By learning to communicate more clearly, we open the door to better understanding, stronger collaboration, and greater success for everyone involved.

Get in touch to learn more enquiries@remtekworkplace.com