Wednesday, June 22, 2005
More than personal problems?
Something to keep in mind is that this employee may have a non-verbal learning disability. This is a relatively new diagnosis but is very real. People with NLD are often extremely bright but they don't have much in the way of personal skills.
Basically, all the non-verbal communication that helps all of us get along is invisible to them. They may not know when a conversation has moved on, they don't realize how their comments affect others, personal space and sometimes personal hygiene are a mysteries to them. They are often very literal and common sayings and phrases confuse them to no end. Working in groups is one of the most stressful things that they have to live through.
Basically, all the non-verbal communication that helps all of us get along is invisible to them. They may not know when a conversation has moved on, they don't realize how their comments affect others, personal space and sometimes personal hygiene are a mysteries to them. They are often very literal and common sayings and phrases confuse them to no end. Working in groups is one of the most stressful things that they have to live through.
