Learning disability

Learning disability is a classification that includes several areas of functioning in which a person has difficulty learning in a typical manner, usually caused by an unknown factor or factors. The unknown factor is the disorder that affects the brain's ability to receive and process information. This disorder can make it problematic for a person to learn as quickly or in the same way as someone who isn't affected by a learning disability.

Definition

A learning disability is a neurological disorder. In simple terms, a learning disability results from a difference in the way a person's brain is "wired." Children with learning disabilities are as smart or smarter than their peers. But they may have difficulty reading, writing, spelling, reasoning, recalling and/or organizing information if left to figure things out by themselves or if taught in conventional ways.

Types of Learning Disabilities

There are several types of learning disabilities, including:

• Dyslexia: A language-based disability in which a person has trouble understanding written words.
• Dyscalculia: A mathematical disability in which a person has a difficult time solving arithmetic problems and grasping math concepts.
• Dysgraphia: A writing disability in which a person finds it hard to form letters or write within a defined space.
• Auditory and Visual Processing Disorders: Sensory disabilities in which a person has difficulty understanding language despite normal hearing and vision.
• Nonverbal Learning Disabilities: A neurological disorder which originates in the right hemisphere of the brain, causing problems with visual-spatial, intuitive, organizational, evaluative and holistic processing functions.

Causes

The exact causes of learning disabilities are not entirely understood, but they are believed to arise from neurological differences in brain structure and function. They can be related to conditions such as genetic disorders, prenatal exposure to drugs or alcohol, premature birth, or certain types of injuries.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of a learning disability can be difficult and involves a series of tests, observations, and background information. The process usually involves a team of professionals and includes a psychological evaluation as well as academic testing.

Treatment

There is no cure for learning disabilities. They are life-long. However, with appropriate support and intervention, people with learning disabilities can achieve success in school, at work, in relationships, and in the community.

See also

• Special education
• Individualized Education Program
• Learning theory (education)

Learning disability Resources
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