The Importance of Learning Social Etiquette and Boundaries

Social etiquette may sound old-fashioned, but it is really just another way of creating, respecting, and upholding healthy boundaries with our friends and neighbors. Having healthy boundaries is important for day-to-day activities, avoiding abusive relationships, and navigating complex social situations. It is not always easy for children or adults with learning disabilities to fully comprehend these types of rules - but is possible to train the brain to better understand social etiquette over time.

Barbara Arrowsmith Young often recounts her story of developing the Symbol Relations program and Clocks cognitive exercise and seeing the impact it had on her ability to understand the television show 60 Minutes. Prior to doing this cognitive exercise, she found it frustrating to follow the concepts being introduced by the moderator. She would have to ask clarifying questions to those watching the program with her. After months of working on symbol relations, she was able to see these social or factual relationships without needing clarification.

Beyond being helpful in understanding social narratives, Symbol Relations exercises improve the neurological capability of interpreting social rules and norms, of being capable of visually observing pragmatic nuances, and being able to quickly grasp and interpret the essential idea when presented with a social story at school or work - in other words, strengthening symbol relations abilities and grasping social etiquette helps you to anticipate expectations, read the room, and stay aware of your situation.

If you have a learning disability and find yourself struggling to understand social situations or relationships, Eaton Arrowsmith Program employs a variety of this type of cognitive exercise to help you get to the root of your difficulties and tackle them “head on” (brain pun intended). It can mean the difference between coping with your learning disability and finally growing, learning, and thriving.