| Frequently Asked Questions About Dyslexia What is dyslexia? Dyslexia is a language-based learning disability. Dyslexia refers to a cluster of symptoms, which result in people having difficulties with specific language skills, particularly reading. Students with dyslexia experience difficulties with other language skills such as spelling, writing, and pronouncing words. Dyslexia affects individuals throughout their lives; however, its impact can change at different stages in a person’s life. What causes dyslexia? The exact causes of dyslexia are still not completely clear, but anatomical and brain imagery studies show differences in the way the brain of a person with dyslexia develops and functions. Moreover, research has demonstrated that a deficit in phonological processing is the primary cause of dyslexia. Dyslexia is not due to either lack of intelligence or desire to learn; with appropriate teaching methods, dyslexics can learn successfully. What are the effects of dyslexia? The impact that dyslexia has is different for each person and depends on the severity of the condition and the effectiveness of instruction or remediation. The core difficulty is with word recognition and reading fluency and spelling. Some individuals with dyslexia manage to learn early reading and spelling tasks, especially with excellent instruction, but later experience problems when more complex language skills are required, such as understanding textbook material. Please refer to the International Dyslexia Association website (interdys.org) for more information about the following topics. What is dyslexia? (formal definition) Common signs of dyslexia Are there other learning disabilities besides dyslexia? Are Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder (ADHD) learning disabilities? How common are language-based learning disabilities? Can individuals who are dyslexic learn to read? How do people get dyslexia? Is there a cure for dyslexia? Are there specific professions people with dyslexia should pursue? How do I know if a person is dyslexic? Other Dyslexia Resources Website Organization interdys.org International Dyslexia Association* icdri.org International Center for Disability Resourcesldanatl.org Learning Disabilities Association ldonline.org Learning Disabilities Online ncld.org National Center for Learning Disabilities nild.org National Institute for Learning Disabilities rfbd.org Recording for the Blind and Dyslexic * On the IDA website, you can search for the New Jersey branch by clicking on the Branches and Global Partner icon and then clicking on search by state. |