What characterizes social communication disorder?

Social communication disorder is primarily characterized by difficulties in using verbal and nonverbal communication for social purposes. This includes challenges in how individuals understand and adhere to social rules of communication such as taking turns in conversation, adjusting their language according to the audience, and using appropriate gestures and facial expressions. People with this disorder may struggle to understand context, tone, or implied meanings during conversations, which can affect their ability to interact effectively in social situations.

The other options, while they may relate to different aspects of communication difficulties, do not specifically define social communication disorder. Low vocabulary usage pertains more to language development but does not encompass the social interactions that define the disorder. Limited phonological awareness is more related to skills necessary for reading and writing rather than social communication. Physical speech impairments focus on articulatory or voice issues, which are different from the social aspects of communication highlighted in social communication disorder.