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Writer's picturePhysical Therapy International Service

American Sign Language

Author: Jenna Little 



ASL, or American Sign Language, is a comprehensive, natural language that possesses the same linguistic features as spoken languages, but its grammar is distinct from English. There is not one specific person or group that created ASL, but it began as a mixture of sign language from local communities and LSF, or French Sign Language. Compared to spoken language, ASL has a different way of signaling different functions of emotion. With ASL, users can add emotion to signal asking a question by raising their eyebrows or widening their eyes. This is necessary for nonverbal individuals as emotion is such a large component of language. Emotions help communicate so much detail which is why it is important to implement nonverbal expressions while signing.


Babies can learn sign language around the age of 8 months because at that point, they have the physical dexterity and cognitive ability to learn, even before their speech has developed. With this said, the age can range from anywhere between 6-9 months. ASL is a visual language, which is expressed by movements of the hand and face. Children who are deaf and have deaf parents will easily pick up ASL just as a spoken language being taught by parents. It is different for deaf children who have parents that are not deaf, which is 9 out of 10 children born deaf. 


ASL is the third most used language in the United States, behind English and Spanish. It is used by approximately 250,000 to 500,000 individuals in the United States. There are more than 300 types of sign language across the world, some being British Sign Language (BSL), Australian Auslan sign language and New Zealand Sign Language. British Sign Language has many differences from ASL. ASL uses one hand to sign whereas BSL uses two hands and fingerspelling, so it makes for differences that can change one's understanding of a seemingly similar language. There are some minor differences in hand shapes and facial expressions when speaking. ASL is heavily reliant on facial expressions and BSL relies on body movements and hand shapes. 


There are different ways that non-ASL speakers can communicate to those who cannot verbalize like visual, auditory, and tactile methods. They can use cued speech, lip reading, and different gestures. Getting their attention is a great way to begin the conversation because it heightens awareness that you are speaking. Speaking clearly and maintaining a normal volume and pace are crucial, as yelling or over-enunciating may make understanding more difficult. Additionally, using pen and pencil or texting is a great tool to use to create sentences or drawings for easier conversation.


Teaching ASL in schools could be just as important as learning other languages like Spanish or French. Learning ASL could create a more inclusive environment for students because of the seamless conversations that could come from it. It provides a way to make nonverbal children feel safer and more accepted, while also allowing them to take it with them to other spaces as adolescents and adults. It offers an opportunity for academic growth as it enhances reading skills and cognitive functions. ASL signers also develop skills like spatial reasoning, which is the understanding of objects moving in a 3-dimensional world, a skill used often in math or sciences. It can increase your advancements in the workforce because of the skill to communicate more widely than others may. In healthcare, ASL can create better communication and relationships with patients who are deaf in order to provide the best possible care.


Destigmatizing nonverbal individuals can be approached in multiple different ways. Raising awareness is an essential part and this includes education. Ensure you are educated about the different ways to communicate with nonverbal individuals. Attend or host workshops to teach others ASL and also spread information about it and why it is so important. Using social media is a great way to share information about communication, stigmas, and the so many capabilities of nonverbal individuals. As a physical therapist and a healthcare provider in general, it is important that you provide the best care you can to patients. Nonverbal patients may require some additional support in order to do that. Providers can begin by trying to learn some basic ASL to facilitate communication as it shows a willingness to give the patient a level of commitment. Physical therapists can also use interpreters during sessions to make communication smoother for the patient. Using different methods of communication is also helpful like visual cues, demonstrations, diagrams, and written instructions to give ample options for understanding. Creating a welcoming environment for the patient is key because their health is the biggest priority, and to ensure you can treat them properly, you must be able to make them feel safe and welcome.


In conclusion, ASL isn’t just a language; it’s a way of creating connection and understanding for everyone, especially for those who are nonverbal. From helping babies communicate before they can speak to making healthcare more accessible, ASL shows how powerful nonverbal language can be. Teaching ASL in schools and learning about other ways to communicate with nonverbal individuals can break down barriers and make our communities more inclusive. By raising awareness and reducing stigmas around nonverbal communication, we can help build a world where everyone feels seen, respected, and understood.




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