What is the communicative level?

Communication is not only crucial for social and emotional development, it is also vital for cognitive development. In order to effectively address or compensate for inadequate or problematic communication, or to stimulate communication, it is important to know the root cause of the problem. Communication is not an isolated component of human functioning; therefore it must be assessed in relation with social, emotional and cognitive functioning ⁴⁰ .

Behaviour problems are often associated with miscommunication. It is therefore important to determine a client’s level of understanding and expression. What level of communication should you use when working with the client? And what will the client be able to understand, even when stressed? Depending on the client’s abstraction ability, facilitated communication strategies can be considered such as using objects, icons, photos, gestures, or physical symbols.

Overestimating a client's communicative level means that communications will not be in line with their communicative level and skills. This can result in miscommunication, excessive expectations and a lack of understanding.