Although dyslexia is one of the most common learning conditions, it’s also widely misunderstood and frequently misdiagnosed. Whether you’re someone with dyslexia, a parent of a child with dyslexia or an educator wanting to learn more, here are some facts about this condition to dispel confusion and address misconceptions.
Dyslexia Affects 80-90% of People with a Learning Condition
It also affects around 20% of the population and is the most common neuro-cognitive disorder. Moreover, Sally Shaywitz, co-director of the Yale Center for Dyslexia and Creativity, says many children go undiagnosed, with symptoms misattributed to environmental factors or intelligence.
Gender Doesn’t Impact the Likelihood of Having Dyslexia
Boys and girls experience dyslexia at equal rates, despite outdated and disproven beliefs that boys were more likely to have this condition.
It’s More Complicated Than Reading Difficulties
Difficulties with reading are certainly part of the dyslexic experience; however, it’s not the only part. Dyslexia affects an individual’s ability to decode words, which in turn, leads to trouble recognizing and retrieving words, expressing themselves, rhyming and taking notes. Students with dyslexia struggle more than their peers in the classroom — and often work much harder.
It May Be Partly Genetic
There’s no one “root cause” of dyslexia, but studies have found it may be linked to certain genetic variants, which may increase the likelihood of earlier diagnosis and better intervention.
Dyslexia Has Nothing to Do with Intelligence
Some of the world’s best-known and brightest thinkers have dyslexia. While it may take dyslexic students longer to learn to read or communicate differently, they’re often quick, creative and high-performing individuals. In fact, Steven Spielberg, Albert Einstein, Agatha Christie and Eleanor Roosevelt all had dyslexia.
There May be Co-Occurring Conditions
Up to 40% of those with dyslexia may also have ADHD, particularly the attention-deficit subtype. Some research additionally shows some overlap between reading challenges and anxiety, depression, autism spectrum conditions and other conditions. It’s important to consider these possible co-occurring conditions when seeking support for dyslexia to ensure comprehensive and personalized treatment.
Dyslexia Can’t Be “Cured,” But There Are Many Treatment Options
Early intervention, usually starting with a reading screening, is key for kids with dyslexia.
Additionally, there are several evidence-based support systems to improve reading skills. Many are based on the Orton-Gillingham treatment model, and kids can receive this instruction through special education at school or working with a speech-language pathologist. The basis of the Orton-Gillingham approach is multisensory structured language education (MSLE). MSLE goes beyond decoding to use sight, sound, movement and touch to connect language to words.
Remember, kids with dyslexia are entitled to appropriate accommodations in the classroom. Individuals with dyslexia can thrive in school, the workplace and beyond with the right tools and support network.
At Winston Center, we take a compassionate and scientifically backed approach to addressing dyslexia and related learning conditions. Learn more about how we can help you or your child succeed or schedule a free reading screening.