Social Sensitivity

Abstract

Despite whatever limitations people with Down syndrome may have in expressive language, they tend to have excellent receptive skills. We have heard time and again from families that their family member with Down syndrome seems to take in and remember everything they see in their immediate environment. One area of particular importance to people with Down syndrome is that they seem to be especially aware of and sensitive to their immediate social environment. Most are quite adept at reading social cues, especially at picking up the feelings and emotions of others in their environment. Because of this, people with Down syndrome have a reputation for having excellent social skills. Many people, but not all, are friendly and social beings who relate well to others, are often empathic and responsive to the feelings and emotions of others and especially to significant others. Related to this is that many have been described by family and caregivers as wanting to please others. This may be due in part to a wish to promote a positive emotional climate and to reduce any negative emotions, but it may also be due to a genuine sense of affection and caring for others.