Specific Learning Disorder
A neurodevelopmental condition involving persistent difficulties learning key academic skills, such as reading, writing, or math, despite appropriate instruction.
Overview
Specific learning disorder involves persistent difficulties learning key academic skills, such as accurate reading, written expression, or mathematics, with performance well below expected for age despite appropriate instruction, beginning during school-age years.
Signs and Symptoms
Symptoms can include inaccurate or slow, effortful reading, poor written expression, or difficulty with number sense and mathematical reasoning, depending on the specific skill affected. Experiencing one or more of these symptoms does not necessarily mean that a person has this condition. Diagnosis requires an appropriate clinical evaluation.
Causes and Risk Factors
The exact cause is not fully understood. Genetic factors and differences in specific brain processing systems are associated with learning disorders.
Diagnosis
A diagnosis should be made by a qualified healthcare professional following a comprehensive clinical assessment. Clinicians may use established diagnostic frameworks such as DSM-5-TR and/or ICD-11 as part of a comprehensive assessment.
Treatment
Treatment depends on the individual’s symptoms, clinical history, severity, age, co-occurring conditions, and other relevant factors.
Psychotherapy
Structured, specialized academic instruction targeted to the specific skill deficit has the strongest evidence base.
Living With Specific Learning Disorder
Individualized education plans and accommodations can support academic success alongside targeted instruction.
When to Seek Professional Help
Professional evaluation may be appropriate if symptoms persist, worsen, cause significant distress, or interfere with work, school, or relationships.
Outlook
With appropriate, targeted instruction, many individuals make significant academic progress; some difficulties may persist into adulthood.
Related Conditions
Medical Information Disclaimer
Ratel Health provides general educational information and does not provide medical diagnosis, treatment, or individualized medical advice. Information on this page is not a substitute for evaluation or care from a qualified healthcare professional. Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or another person, or to start, stop, or change treatment or medication without consulting an appropriately qualified healthcare professional.
References
- American Psychiatric Association. Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition, Text Revision (DSM-5-TR).
- National Institute of Mental Health.
- World Health Organization. International Classification of Diseases, 11th Revision.