Communication Asymmetry

The imbalance in communication capabilities, speed, or modalities between conversation partners. In AAC contexts, communication asymmetry arises because AAC users communicate at 12-18 words per minute compared to 125-185 for typical speakers, creating fundamental differences in timing, turn-taking dynamics, and opportunities for backchanneling. This asymmetry affects how conversations flow—non-AAC partners may interpret pauses as completion signals, may dominate the conversation floor, or may not notice non-verbal cues from AAC users. Addressing communication asymmetry requires mutual adaptation by both partners, not just faster AAC output.