Pragmatic communication disorders following stroke

Abstract

This article provides the rehabilitation professional with a summary of current knowledge regarding the nature, implications, and management of pragmatic communication disorders following stroke. Alternative views and definitions of pragmatics are discussed. Pragmatic communication strengths and weaknesses following right and left cerebral hemisphere damage are described within the framework of verbal expression, verbal comprehension, paralinguistic skills, and nonverbal abilities. Assessment principles and practices are presented, and specific assessment tools and methodologies are described. The article includes a review of current treatment strategies for pragmatic communication disorders following stroke and provides a rationale for an emphasis on pragmatics in the rehabilitation of persons with communication disorders following stroke.

Key Words:

• aphasia
• functional communication
• pragmatics
• right hemisphere communication disorder
• stroke