Specific Learning Disorder — An Overview

If your child is not performing well in school regarding reading, writing or mathematics, they may suffer from Specific Learning Disorder. In the academic year of 2020–2021, approximately 2.34 million persons aged 3–21 years were covered by the Individuals with Disabilities Act (IDEA). That’s a huge number of people suffering from this usually unnoticed disorder. Let’s have an overview of this disorder for better understanding.

What is a Specific Learning Disorder?

According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders 5 (DSM-5), a specific learning disorder is characterized by difficulties in learning or using specific academic skills, such as reading, writing or arithmetic. The DSM-5 categorizes Specific Learning Disorders as neurodevelopmental disorders.

Diagnostic Criteria of Specific Learning Disorder According to DSM-5

According to DSM-5, a person must meet four criteria to be diagnosed with Specific Learning Disorder:

1. Difficulty in at least one of the following areas since the last six months

• Reading
• Meaning of what is read
• Spelling
• Writing
• Maths (numbers, calculations)
• Arithmetic reasoning (applying mathematical concepts to solve problems)

2. Academic performance is below that of peers and causes difficulty in school, work or daily activities

3. Difficulties start during school age

4. Difficulties are not due to other conditions such as intellectual disability or any neurological condition

Types of Specific Learning Disorders

There are three types of specific learning disorders:

1. Dysgraphia involves problems in writing and composing
2. Dyslexia involves problems in reading and comprehending
3. Dysgraphia involves problems in comprehending and applying math concepts

Comorbid Conditions with Specific Learning Disorders

According to DSM-5, many comorbid conditions with Specific Learning disorders must be considered while managing these disorders. These conditions include language delay, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and conduct disorder.

Assessment of Specific Learning Disorder

Personal interviews, academic records, parents’ and teachers’ reports, and clinical tools and observations are used to assess specific learning disorders. Clinical tools must be standardized and assess the child’s cognitive abilities, academic achievements, reading fluency etc. These tools must be culturally appropriate.

Management of Specific Learning Disorder

The Specific Learning Disorder can be managed with proper intervention. There are no medicines for its treatment. The intervention depends on the type of specific learning disorder a person has. If diagnosed with a specific learning disorder, a child is provided with special education services.

Treatment of dyslexia focuses on phonological awareness, decoding skills, comprehension and fluency. For dysgraphia, treatment focuses on the writing process and composing written material. Multisensory instructions are used to treat dyscalculia.

Bottom Line

If you suspect your child is showing any symptoms of Specific Learning Disorder, do not hesitate to seek professional help.