Social Rhythm and Time An interesting part of social interaction

Social Rhythm Conversation requires an easy back-and-forth rhythm. Playing a team sport requires good social rhythm. Being comfortable with another person involves being socially “in synch.” Constant interrupting is a sign of disruptive social rhythm.

Time Is a Part of Social Rhythm Do you know people who are always late? When you eat with others, do you finish your meal at about the same time? Do you make decisions slowly and methodically or quickly, randomly, and loosely? Have you ever had difficulty working with somebody whose time and rhythm were different from yours?

Temple Grandin, a famous woman with autism, said that she felt like she was born without natural social rhythm.

Why Is This Important? Friendships grow when two people are in synch. People feel more comfortable with others who function at the same pace as they do. Compromise and group work depend on attending to each other’s pace.

Things a Teacher Can Do to Help Have students: Practice turn taking Mime another person’s actions Practice back-and-forth conversation Dance and march in rhythm Practice eating at the same rate as another person Announce to the class when an activity should be done slowly and carefully