1.6 Explain reasons why an individual may use a form of communication that is not based on a formal language system

This guide will help you answer 1.6 Explain reasons why an individual may use a form of communication that is not based on a formal language system.

Every individual has unique communication needs. Not everybody communicates using established spoken or written language. Non-formal communication systems are used for many reasons, and understanding these reasons helps ensure individuals are supported effectively. In this guide, we will look at why someone might use alternative forms of communication.

Physical Disabilities

Some individuals cannot physically produce speech sounds or write legibly. Physical disabilities, including conditions like cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, or stroke-related injuries, can limit their ability to control the muscles needed for speech, hand movements, or body gestures associated with formal language.

Instead of spoken language, such individuals may rely on:

• Eye movements or blinking
• Hand signals or basic gestures
• Assistive communication devices using symbols or images

These methods allow them to express their needs, thoughts, and emotions.

Cognitive Impairments

Cognitive conditions such as dementia, learning disabilities, or brain injuries may affect a person’s ability to recall words or understand sentence structure. Formal language systems often seem too overwhelming, so alternative communication is used.

For instance:

• A person with dementia may lose vocabulary skills but might still communicate using facial expressions or sounds.
• Someone with a learning disability might point at objects or pictures to express themselves.

These methods are personal, helping individuals communicate at their own pace.

Developmental Delays

Some people experience delays in developing formal language skills. This can occur in children with delayed language development or individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

Reasons for using alternative communication include:

• Difficulty understanding or forming sentences
• Limited vocabulary
• Preference for visual communication, such as using pictures or symbols

Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) tools, such as Picture Exchange Communication Systems (PECS), are often used to support individuals with developmental delays.

Sensory Impairments

Hearing or vision impairments can limit communication using traditional methods. For someone who is profoundly deaf and cannot use speech fluently, sign language may not always be a viable option. Instead, they might use gestures or written notes.

Children or adults living with vision impairments might rely on touch-based systems or verbal communication to communicate effectively.

Cultural and Social Differences

An individual’s cultural or social background can influence how they communicate. Some people may grow up in environments where the formal language used in mainstream society is not their first language or not used at all. When moving cultures, such individuals may rely on body language, visual cues, or drawing to interact with others.

These systems provide a bridge until the individual learns or becomes comfortable with the dominant formal language.

Speech Disorders

Speech disorders, such as apraxia or stuttering, can lead someone to use non-formal communication tools. These conditions make producing clear speech difficult or impossible, especially in stressful or demanding situations.

Alternative methods could include:

• Using electronic speech devices
• Writing or typing messages
• Making sounds like humming for specific meanings

This enables smoother interactions despite the challenges they face with traditional speech.

Emotional Barriers

Emotions like anxiety, fear, or trauma can affect how someone communicates. A person who has experienced abuse or neglect might avoid speaking entirely and choose non-verbal ways to interact, such as using body language or facial expressions.

Social anxiety can also cause an individual to feel too nervous to speak. This often leads them to avoid formal language in favour of minimal gestures or written notes.

Temporary Medical Reasons

Sometimes, non-formal communication is temporary. Medical conditions like recovering from throat surgery, severe laryngitis, or dental procedures can impair one’s ability to communicate normally.

In such cases, individuals might:

• Write down what they want to say
• Use hand signals to express simple needs
• Rely on communication apps while recovering

These solutions provide a way to continue meaningful interaction while healing.

Preferring Personal Comfort

People may simply find non-formal communication easier, faster, or more meaningful. They might combine spoken words with facial expressions, body movements, or unique sounds. Some individuals feel that gestures, visuals, or touch offer a deeper connection than words.

Examples of this might include:

• A child pointing to toys rather than saying “I want to play.”
• An older person using tapping on the table to indicate agreement instead of speaking.

This forms part of their personal style and is important to recognise.

Limited Language Skills

A person who speaks a different language, or has limited formal language skills, may communicate using alternatives like pictures, symbols, or drawing. This bridges a gap when verbal understanding isn’t mutual.

For example:

• A non-English-speaking tourist using gestures to ask directions.
• A child sketching to explain something they don’t yet have words for.

These alternative forms often work until both parties build better mutual understanding.

Preference for Creativity

Some people find creative methods of communication more satisfying than formal systems. This applies in particular to children or individuals with artistic tendencies. They may use art, music, or physical movement to share their ideas or emotions.

For instance:

• Dancing could express happiness or excitement.
• Drawing might share a narrative without spoken words.

This approach highlights the diversity of human expression and how language systems adapt to individual strengths.

Neurological or Psychiatric Conditions

Certain neurological or mental health conditions may lead individuals to avoid using formal language. Those with conditions such as selective mutism or schizophrenia might rely on non-verbal communication to express themselves.

This might include:

• Writing messages instead of speaking
• Non-verbal cues like head nodding or hand gestures
• Relying on visual aids to communicate

These methods provide a safer and more comfortable way for such individuals to interact with others on their terms.

Supporting Individuals Using Non-Formal Communication

It’s important to adapt to each individual’s communication style. Support workers must work closely with the person, their family, and other professionals to:

• Learn what specific gestures or cues mean.
• Encourage use of Assisted Communication Devices if appropriate.
• Avoid assuming meaning without clarification.

Effective communication improves relationships, ensures needs are met, and provides a sense of dignity and inclusion.

Laws and Guidance in the UK

In the UK, equality laws ensure that individuals who communicate differently are supported. The Equality Act 2010 protects individuals with disabilities, making reasonable adjustments mandatory. Health and social care staff must accommodate individuals who use non-formal communication so they can participate fully in decisions and society.

Final Thoughts

There are many valid reasons why someone might use communication methods that are not based on a formal language system. These include physical, cognitive, social, or emotional factors, as well as personal preference. Understanding and supporting these needs benefits everyone, creating environments of inclusion and respect.