Is it important to understand the communicator’s emotions while they convey something? Reflexively we would say – of course, how else can we communicate? But the reality of communicators using augmentative and alternative methods to communicate is altogether different. In this blog we will explore the importance of understanding emotions in communication.
Caregivers & AAC Users’ Emotions
In a world of caregivers and their loved ones using AAC, emotional competence plays a crucial role. Understanding goes beyond just hearing words. As a caregiver, understanding your child isn’t just a skill you’ve mastered; it’s a journey of patience, empathy, and profound understanding. With daily exchanges and heartfelt conversations, a crucial question lingers for every caregiver: Have you truly caught the real emotion?
Imagine this vivid scene: Your child’s eyes sparkle with excitement as they eagerly tap out a message on their AAC device about an upcoming sports event at school. Their device speaks the words aloud, and you get the message, but the question remains: Do you understand the depth of the emotion behind that message?
This is not a unique challenge. It is a reality that countless caregivers and their loved ones face while navigating their daily lives with AAC.
So, how do we bridge this gap to truly connect beyond the surface – and not get lost during interpretation?
Are You Reading Between the lines?
AAC users have always been trying to express themselves. When they attempt to convey emotions through AAC, they are often met with frustration. Think about it, emotions are the essence of human interaction. It adds add depth, nuance, and sincerity to our words enabling us to connect on a deeper level.
Common Challenges Faced by Misunderstood Emotions:
Caregivers, are usually caught up in the day-to-day challenges of AAC communication. But it is crucial to pause and ask: Are you truly reading between the lines? Are you tuned to the emotions behind the words, the subtle cues that reveal the innermost feelings?
Here are some potential challenges emerging from misunderstood emotions:
- Misunderstandings and tensions may arise in the caregiver-child relationship.
- Emotional needs of the child may go unaddressed leading to feelings of isolation and distress.
- Lack of emotional validation can affect the child’s self-esteem.
- The impact of “feeling unheard” may affect the child’s emotional well-being.
Expressing Loud and Clear!
In this era of rapid technological advancement, Avaz AAC sets itself apart as more than just a conventional AAC solution. The Expressive Tones feature on Avaz AAC is a one-of-a-kind feature that adds emotions to every word. As a result, all communication done through the app feels authentic.
This feature recognizes that one size does not fit all. It provides the user with a voice that echoes their unique personality. This goes beyond the confines of traditional AAC for a more complete communicative experience.
From Anger, Excitement, Sadness, Curiosity, and even the subtle nuances of Sarcasm, Whispering, and Scared tones – Expressive Tones on Avaz has it all.
The Impact of Expressive Tones on AAC
With Expressive Tones, every word comes to life! Thanks to this, AAC users are no longer limited to mere words. Each word ones uses is filled with emotion. They can choose an appropriate tone to express their feelings seamlessly.
As for caregivers, understanding the depth of emotion becomes effortless. Whether it is a subtle change in tone or a burst of enthusiasm, Expressive Tones provide caregivers with valuable insights into their loved one’s emotional state.
Communication is a Two Way Street
As the saying goes, communication is indeed a two-way street – a journey where understanding flows freely in both directions. With the introduction of Expressive Tones on Avaz, teaching emotions and comprehending emotions of AAC users will be effective. AAC users can now express themselves authentically, while caregivers can navigate their emotions with newfound clarity.
Try out the Expressive Tones feature and let us know what you think!
It is available on both Android and iOS versions of Avaz. This feature requires an active internet connection to function.
