Social Thinking and Hidden Rules

Social thinking involves understanding and navigating hidden social rules that are often not explicitly taught. These hidden rules vary by situation and can dictate appropriate behaviors in different contexts, such as classrooms, social gatherings, or family settings. For instance, children need to understand that behaviors like standing in line require certain behaviors like facing forward and using a quiet voice to create a comfortable environment for others. Recognizing these expectations helps children relate better to their peers and prevents unintentional discomfort or anxiety associated with breaking social norms.