Types of Communication and Strategies for Different Age Groups

Verbal communication

Form of communication based on language or words.

Vocal communication

Spoken language.

Nonvocal communication

Based on signs or signals.

Nonverbal communication

Messages expressed by body language.

Nonverbal vocal communication

Volume, pitch.

Nonverbal nonvocal communication

Body posture, eye movements.

Media communication

Use of tools or technology to convey information.

Cultural barriers

Differences in social norms or perceptions related to age, language, gender.

Interpersonal barriers

Discomfort related to perceptions about the individual; not seeing eye to eye, unable to relate with each other.

Attitudinal barriers

Lack of sensitivity or respect.

Physical barriers

Distractions related to environment; loud noises, bright lights.

Physiologic barriers

Inability to see or hear or speak well.

Psychosociologic barriers

Emotional factors such as fear of pain.

Insufficient knowledge

Either clinician is not well informed and cannot provide sufficient information or the patient has low health literacy.

Lack of access to knowledge

Inability to access media or technology to find information.

Lack of interest

Patient is not ready to engage in health behavior change; clinician is experiencing 'burn out'.

Information overload

Too much information on too many topics provided at one time.

Poor communication skills

Either patient or the clinician is not able to respond or provide feedback to messages received; clinician uses 'jargon' that patient doesn't understand.

Communication with infants

Interact playfully by mimicking facial expressions, rocking, talking soft or singing. Encourage adult to distract. Wait until calm to approach.

Communication with toddlers

Approach directly. Parallel actions. Calmly direct or distract toward an alternative behavior. State specifically what they are expected to do rather than criticize.

Communication with school age children

Respond to simple questions to assess knowledge and misconceptions.

Communication with adolescents

Actively engage using straightforward and interactive approach and then solicit input. Build trust and rapport. Be upfront about confidentiality. Address patient directly.

Communication with older adults

Identify potential communication barriers. Avoid patronization and respect patient's level of competence. Speak slowly and clearly.