Learning disorder

Learning disorder 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 is not affected by a learning disability. People with a learning disability have trouble performing specific types of skills or completing tasks if left to figure things out by themselves or if taught in conventional ways.

Definition

Individual learning disorders can be classified by either the type of information processing that is affected or by the specific difficulties caused by a processing deficit.

Types

Learning disorders generally affect people of average or above average intelligence. As such, the disorder appears as a gap between the individual's apparent capacity to learn and his or her level of achievement. There are many types of learning disorders, including:

• Reading disorder
• Mathematics disorder
• Disorder of written expression
• Nonverbal learning disorder

Causes

The causes for learning disorders are not well understood, but they appear to occur more frequently in families with a history of learning disorders. This suggests that there may be a genetic component. Other potential causes include:

• Prenatal and neonatal risks
• Psychological trauma
• Physical trauma
• Environmental exposure

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of a learning disorder is a process that involves testing, history taking, and observation by a trained specialist. Learning disorders should be identified as early as possible. Once a learning disorder has been diagnosed, a team of specialists can create an individualized education plan (IEP) for the child, which helps them to achieve at school.

Treatment

While learning disorders can cause lifelong problems, the impact can be mitigated through early intervention. Treatment usually involves a kind of educational therapy. With appropriate help, most people with learning disorders can learn to compensate for their disorders and lead normal or near-normal lives.

See also

• Special education
• Dyslexia
• Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder
• Autism

Learning disorder Resources
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