Learning Disorders

It is estimated that up to 1 in 10 people are affected by at least one learning disorder, highlighting the need for greater awareness, early identification, and the availability of support services in education.^[2]

This article outlines common specific learning disorders and the types of support available to meet an individual’s learning needs.

This information is not intended to replace professional medical advice. If you or a loved one is worried about the impact of a learning disorder, seek support from your healthcare provider.

Key takeaways

• Learning disorders (also called specific learning difficulties) are conditions that affect how individuals learn, process, and communicate information.

• Common learning disorders include dyslexia, dyscalculia, dysgraphia, dyspraxia, and language disorder.

• A wide range of support is available for individuals with learning disorders, both in and out of the classroom.

Understanding learning disorders

Learning disorders are a group of conditions that impact an individual’s ability to engage in traditional academic education. In these conditions, a person’s intelligence and intellectual ability are unaffected. Instead, learning disorders involve difficulties with how information is processed, learned, and communicated.^[1][3]

Common learning disorders include:^[1][4]

• Dyslexia: Difficulties with reading

• Dyscalculia: Difficulties with mathematics

• Dysgraphia: Difficulties with the written word

• Language disorder: Difficulties with using language

• Dyspraxia: Difficulties with motor coordination and physical movement

The language used to describe learning disorders

This article uses the term ‘learning disorders’ because it reflects the commonly accepted medical description of these conditions. Other terms commonly used include:^[4][5]

• Specific learning disorder (SLD): This is the diagnostic term used in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders 5 (DSM-5-TR). This term does not include ‘language disorder’ as this is a separate diagnosis.

• Learning difficulties (or specific learning difficulties): A less medicalized term often preferred by people with these conditions to reflect their lived experience without emphasizing a medical diagnosis.

• Learning differences: An inclusive term that acknowledges each individual’s unique way of thinking and processing information.

Are learning disorders the same as learning disabilities?

The terms learning disorder and learning disability are often used interchangeably, but they have distinct meanings. Learning disability more accurately describes a condition that involves reduced intellectual ability and difficulty completing everyday tasks.^[3]

Conditions that commonly involve a form of learning disability include genetic syndromes, such as:^[3]

• Down syndrome

• DiGeorge syndrome

• Angelman syndrome

• Rett syndrome

Types of learning disorders

People with specific learning difficulties often experience more than one condition to varying degrees. Difficulties with daily functioning may also extend beyond the academic setting, such as in social interactions or practical tasks.^[6]

Reading

Dyslexia is the most common learning disorder, accounting for around 80% of all learning difficulties. People with dyslexia often struggle with interpreting words, recognizing spelling patterns, and understanding sentence structure. Overall reading comprehension may also be impacted.^[6]

Writing

Dysgraphia involves distorted or unclear handwriting. These difficulties persist even though motor skills may appear normal in other aspects of life. Individuals may also have issues with spelling accuracy, grammar usage, and sentence structure.^[6]

Speech and language

Language disorder involves difficulty with producing or understanding language. People with language disorder have a reduced vocabulary, use short or simplified sentences, and may struggle to express their thoughts verbally.^[7]

Maths

Dyscalculia is characterized by a weakness in performing basic mathematics. Individuals with dyscalculia may struggle to recognize math calculation signs and complete multi-step calculations.^[6]

Non-verbal skills

Non-verbal learning disorders involve difficulties with tasks such as problem-solving, spatial activities, reading body language, and recognizing social cues.^[6]

Dyspraxia is a form of non-verbal learning disorder that involves difficulties with motor control and coordination.^[8]

Causes of learning disorders

Learning disorders have complex causes that are not yet fully understood. Research has identified several risk factors that may increase the chance of a child developing a learning disorder:^[9]

• Genetics: Children who have a parent with a learning disorder are more likely to have one themselves.

• Prenatal exposure: Maternal exposure to drugs and alcohol increases the risk of the child developing a learning disorder later in life.

• Childhood exposures: Poor nutrition and exposure to environmental toxins like head have both been linked to an increased risk of learning disorders.

• Lack of childhood support: Children who do not receive adequate early learning and emotional support may show signs of a learning disorder once they start school.

• Neurological conditions: In rare cases, cognitive decline caused by conditions such as dementia or traumatic brain injury may lead to difficulties that resemble learning disorders, particularly in later life.

Symptoms of learning disorders

Specific learning difficulties often become apparent when a child starts or progresses through different stages of their education. It is common for children to encounter challenges while learning. However, for individuals with learning disorders, these difficulties affect multiple aspects of education and do not go away over time.^[9]

According to the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, common signs of a learning disorder include:^[9]

• Problems reading and/or writing

• Problems with math

• Poor memory

• Problems paying attention

• Trouble following directions

• Clumsiness

• Trouble telling time

• Problems staying organized

Diagnosing learning disorders

Schools often play a central role in the early identification and diagnosis of learning disorders through a process called ‘response to intervention.’ This is a tier-based process in which all children are monitored for potential increased learning needs and their response to support is evaluated. Children who do not respond to early support may be referred for special educational services.^[9]

If a professional assessment for learning disorders is needed, a child will likely need to undertake:^[9]

• A clinical diagnostic exam: This involves an evaluation by a physician and/or a psychologist of the child’s abilities against the DSM-5-TR diagnostic criteria.

• Background review: This includes a health assessment to identify any neurological conditions that may be present. The assessment will also include a review of the child’s social, family, and developmental history.

• Academic testing: Educational specialists will evaluate the child’s current academic abilities and determine whether existing support is effective or if adjustments are needed.

• Speech and language assessment: A speech and language therapist may also assess the individual’s functional abilities.

Risks and complications

Learning difficulties may contribute to a range of complications, such as:^[6]

• Increased risk of low academic performance

• Absence from school

• Limited career opportunities

• Difficulties with forming social relationships

• Poor self-image, low mood, and depression

• Behavioral problems

Treatment for learning disorders

Specific learning disorders cannot be cured, but early and effective interventions can significantly lessen their impact on daily functioning and future opportunities.

School support for learning disorders

In the U.S., children diagnosed with learning disorders are eligible for special education services. In most states, these services begin when a child is 3 years old and continue until the end of high school. The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) ensures that schools provide these services, supporting children in the least restrictive environment that still meets their skill and learning needs.^[9]

Special education services will work with the child and their family to develop an Individualized Education Program (IEP). This plan lists the child’s educational goals, the services they will receive, and the specialists who will work with the child.^[9]

Examples of specific interventions to support children with additional learning needs include:^[9]

• Intensive teaching techniques: Providing direct instruction that breaks down tasks into manageable steps.

• Classroom modification: Including extra time on tests and audio versions of written tasks.

• Special tools: This may include the use of technology, audio recorders, or note-takers.

• Reducing the need for writing: Notes or preprinted study pages may be provided.

• Visual and memory aids: Incorporates diagrams, charts, and mnemonic devices to support information retention.

At-home management for children with learning disorders

Special education services will also provide information and support that extends beyond the classroom. Parents and guardians are given access to resources that can help them provide support appropriate to the child’s learning needs.

Specialists can also provide further assessment and treatments aimed at improving overall daily functioning, including:^[6]

• Speech therapy: Identifying and treating any barriers to using language.

• Occupational and physical therapy: Helping develop fine motor and coordination skills.

• Psychology: Supporting children to cope with emotional and social challenges.

Dealing with learning disorders later in life

It is important to remember that not all learning disorders are diagnosed during childhood, and symptoms often persist into adulthood. Access to support and learning adaptations should continue in university level and adult education, as well as in the workplace.

Final thoughts

Without proper support, people with learning disorders often face significant challenges with engaging in education and career progression. However, with thorough assessment and professional treatment, individuals with specific learning difficulties can access a wide range of opportunities and go on to lead fulfilling lives.