The Center
for Neuropsychology and Counseling

Specific Learning Disorders (SLDs) are neurodevelopmental disorders that affect how the brain processes and uses information. Contrary to popular belief, it is not a measure of intelligence nor does it mean that a person cannot do academic tasks. It does mean that there are difficulties in acquiring and using basic academic skills, typically in reading, writing, and mathematics. In medical or outpatient settings, these are labeled as disorders as described in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5-TR) while in school settings, they are labeled under the special educational classification of Specific Learning Disability and have different criteria. The DSM-5-TR criteria are as follows:

• Difficulties in learning and academic skills, as indicated by the presence of at least one of the following symptoms, that have persisted for at least six months despite the provision of interventions targeting those difficulties:
  • Inaccurate or slow and effortful word reading
  • Difficulty in the comprehension of the meaning of what is read
  • Difficulties with spelling
  • Difficulties with written expression
  • Difficulties mastering number sense, number facts, or calculation
  • Difficulties with mathematical reasoning

There are three main types of learning disorders. Dyslexia (a commonly acceptable term synonymous with a Specific Learning Disorder in basic reading skills) is the most well-known learning disorder that impacts a person’s ability to read. This can manifest as struggling to recognize sounds within words, reading fluently, or comprehending what has been read. Dysgraphia is a term that can be used to refer to the specific learning disorder associated with writing. Individuals with this dysgraphia may make grammar or spelling mistakes, struggle to write in a structured or clear way, or find it difficult to neatly form letters on a page. Dyscalculia refers to the third specific learning disorder described, which affects a person’s mathematical abilities. Someone with this diagnosis may struggle with basic calculation, solving complex math problems, or completing multi-step mathematical tasks. Although most children with an SLD are diagnosed with dyslexia, they can also underperform in aspects of writing and mathematics. 

Specific learning disorders are common. Research has estimated that 5-15% of school-age children across different cultures have an SLD in at least one of the three areas. Additionally, there is a link between SLDs and emotional difficulties. Those with a Specific Learning Disorder experience more emotional distress compared to their peers without one, possibly due to perceived feelings of inadequacy or failure even though they may be trying their best. As a result, school dropout and co-occurring depressive and anxiety symptoms are common. Therefore, assessing for an SLD when concerns arise is important so that schools can provide targeted educational accommodations for each student. The evaluation process, its results, and recommendations help prevent long-term psychological and social challenges and hopefully make learning more enjoyable for all students. 

If you suspect you or your child are experiencing a learning disorder and would like to be evaluated or receive therapeutic support, please contact our office at (215) 491-1119.