What is dyslexia?
Dyslexia is a learning disability characterised by difficulties with accurate and/or fluent word recognition and spelling, typically resulting from a deficit in the phonological component of language and unexpected given other abilities (Lyon, Shaywitz & Shaywitz, 2003).
Signs and support
Signs include trouble with rhymes and letter sounds in early childhood, slow, effortful reading in school, and avoidance of long texts later. Hearing, vision and language background should be checked. Explicit, systematic phonics and phonological instruction and accommodations such as extra time help. Early support limits the Matthew effect in reading.
This article is general information, not a diagnosis or medical advice. If you are concerned, please consult a qualified health professional.
Frequently asked questions
- Is dyslexia linked to low intelligence?
- No; it occurs across all levels of intelligence.
- Can dyslexia improve?
- With early assessment and structured reading instruction, reading skills can improve substantially.
References
- Lyon, G. R., Shaywitz, S. E., & Shaywitz, B. A. (2003). A definition of dyslexia. Annals of Dyslexia, 53, 1–14.
- American Psychiatric Association. (2022). DSM-5-TR (specific learning disorder).
- Snowling, M. J., & Hulme, C. (2012). Interventions for children's language and literacy difficulties. International Journal of Language & Communication Disorders, 47(1), 27–34.