Non-Verbal DifficultiesHow does a deficiency in the cognitive function responsible for understanding, perceiving and interpreting non-verbal cues affect us, given that body language, tone of voice, and facial expressions collectively constitute as much as 90% of our communication?
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The part of the brain responsible for non-verbal communication is located in the right hemisphere in our prefrontal cortex. A weakness in the Non-Verbal Thinking cognitive function can often lead to an individual being diagnosed with a non-verbal learning disability.
The impact can be substantial, resulting in social conflict and a lack of effective interpersonal and self-advocacy skills. These social challenges stem from a fundamental difficulty in comprehending one's own emotions and the emotions of others, as well as the struggle to adapt behavior according to the people, situation or surroundings. Individuals can often by misdiagnosed, misunderstood, often having a reputation as being rude, arrogant, shy or antisocial. |
Non-Verbal Difficulties - Cognitive Functions
Non-Verbal difficulties can be caused by weaknesses in one or more of the
following cognitive functions:
following cognitive functions:
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Non-Verbal Thinking (Perception and interpretation of non-verbal world) |
Object Recognition (Visual memory for people, places and things) |
Kinesthetic Perception (Sense of body in space) |
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Spatial Reasoning (Sense of moving through space- "mental map") |
Mechanical Reasoning (Sense of how things operate) |
Abstract Reasoning (Sense of ordered sequence in a process) |
Discover Your Unique Cognitive Profile
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Arrowsmith Cognitive Questionnaire
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Take our 30-minute cognitive profile questionnaire to start the journey into understanding your brain's strengths and weaknesses through a cognitive lens.
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Arrowsmith Cognitive Assessment
The Arrowsmith Cognitive Assessment, administered by an Arrowsmith trained professional, will provide you with an in-depth insight into your unique cognitive profile.
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A Non-Verbal Disorder is Not Just a Problem at School
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The majority of people with NVLD (Non-Verbal Learning Disability) suffer from anxiety because they struggle to comprehend and establish meaningful connections with their parents, teachers, peers, and spouses.
Some individuals manage to conceal their misunderstanding; they might appear charming and remarkably skilled in language. However, eventually, the intricate web of social interactions becomes hard to endure. The teenage years can be exceptionally challenging, marked by feelings of social isolation and behavioural issues. As adults, the difficulty in recognising or understanding cues can lead to problems in establishing priorities and communicating effectively with potential employers or friends, making the world seem like a daunting minefield. A diagnosis of NLVD may include challenges with various cognitive functions, such as difficulties in spatial navigation, awareness of one's body within a given space, and understanding the operation or sequence of things. |
Some Features of a Non-Verbal Learning Difficulty
Poor coordination, often getting in the way,
or seen as clumsy 
Needing to verbally “label” information in order to understand it
Overly trusting, or "naive"
Difficulty dealing with, or handling changes
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Always asking questions, to the point of being repetitive, or interrupting the regular flow of conversation
Visual-spatial difficulties (navigating in space, visualisation of images, determining one’s location of body in space)
Impulsive – acting without taking all the details of a situation into account
Difficulty seeing the big picture or the
"forest for the trees" |
Non-Verbal Difficulties Don't Need to be for LifeSome of the most positive changes come when we strengthen our Non-Verbal Thinking capacity. Relationships deepen, mental health flourishes, and the ability to navigate complex social worlds becomes possible.
Contact Empowering Lives if you or someone you know could benefit from stronger sense of communication and common sense. |
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Testimonials
I have noticed my ability to empathise and use emotional intelligence has increased. Ben - Young Adult |
Once a pinball of energy, Jessica is in control now. She is captain of her university basketball team and skilfully mediates team conflicts. Once a scattered little girl, my daughter now has emotional intelligence, focus and discipline in spades. Laura - Parent |
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