WHAT IS A LEARNING DISABILITY?

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A learning disability is defined as a ; disorder in one or more of the psychological processes involved in understanding or in using spoken or written language. It may manifest itself in an imperfect ability to listen, speak, read, write, spell, or to do mathematical calculations.

Learning disabilities are often characterized by a significant difference in the individual's achievement in some areas, as compared to his or her overall intelligence.

Current terms include the following:

Learning disabilities are NOT due primarily to visual, hearing, or motor handicaps; to mental retardation, emotional disturbance, or environmental disadvantage; although they may occur concurrently with any of these. With early intervention, support and the appropriate teaching techniques and strategies, learning disabilities can often be minimized or overcome, and individuals can lead productive successful lives.

What Causes A Learning Difference?

No one knows what causes learning disabilities as of now. There are too many possibilities to pin down the cause of the disability with certainty.

Some possibilities include; genetic variations, biochemical factors, events in the pre- to perinatal period, or any other subsequent events resulting in neurological impairment. A leading theory among scientists is that learning disabilities stem from subtle disturbances in the brain structures and functions.

It is more important, however, that families not dwell on the causes but rather move forward in finding ways to get the right help.

Isn't it true that students with LD are just plain lazy or unmotivated?

Common misperceptions about learning disabilities are that students with LD are lazy and unmotivated. On the contrary, students with LD often work twice or three times as hard as other students, impelled by an inner drive to accomplish their goals.

How Many Students Have Learning Disabilities?

A wide range of prevalence estimates have appeared in the literature--anywhere from 1% to 30% of the general population-- perhaps reflecting the variations in definitions. The most widely agreed upon range is 2% to 3%.

Are individuals with LD capable of achieving success in their careers?

Numerous individuals - such as Albert Einstein, scientist; Thomas Edison, inventor, Nelson Rockefeller, politician; Roger Wilkins, scholar; Florence Haseltine, biophysicist and physician; Malcolm Goodridge III, corporation executive; and Wendy Wasserstein, prize-winning playwright -have demonstrated that their learning disabilities have not prevented them from succeeding in their fields.

How can I determine if my child has a learning disability?

Children reach certain "milestones" of development: the first word, the first step, and so forth. Both doctors and parents are watching for these developmental milestones. Learning disorders may be informally flagged by observing significant delays in the child's skill development. A 2-year delay in the primary grades is usually considered significant.

While children can be informally flagged by using observation techniques, actual diagnosis of learning disabilities is made using standardized tests that compare the child's level of ability to what is considered normal development for a person of that age and intelligence. Test outcomes depend not only on the child's actual abilities but on the reliability of the test and the child's ability to pay attention and understand the questions.

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