What Is Theory of Mind and How Can a Speech Pathologist Support It?

Theory of Mind refers to the ability to understand that other people may have different thoughts, feelings, beliefs, knowledge, or perspectives from our own.

This skill develops gradually over time.

Children use Theory of Mind skills when they:

• Predict what someone else might do

• Understand jokes or sarcasm

• Recognise emotions

• Understand hidden meanings

• Navigate friendships

• Interpret social situations

What Can Theory of Mind Differences Look Like?

Some children may:

• Interpret language very literally

• Find it difficult to understand others’ perspectives

• Struggle predicting what others may think or feel

• Have difficulty understanding hidden social rules

• Become confused during peer interactions

This is particularly common in neurodivergent children, including many autistic children.

A Neurodiversity-Affirming Perspective

A neurodiversity-affirming approach recognises that different social communication styles are not “wrong.”

The goal is not to force children to behave neurotypically.

Instead, therapy focuses on:

• Increasing understanding of social situations

• Supporting self-advocacy

• Reducing confusion and anxiety

• Supporting authentic communication

• Building confidence navigating different environments

How Can Speech Pathologists Help?

Speech pathologists may support Theory of Mind through:

• Story-based learning

• Emotion mapping

• Perspective-taking activities

• Visual supports

• Social narratives

• Comic strip conversations

• Role play

• Video modelling

These supports can help children better understand both themselves and others in a supportive and respectful way.