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- aline1402
- May 28, 2023
- 2 min read
What is dyslexia?
The word dyslexia is a commonly used word that refers to a specific type of reading difficulty. According to the DSM 5 TR, the manual that psychologists and other mental health professionals use to diagnose developmental disorders, mental health difficulties, learning difficulties… dyslexia is considered specifically a difficulty in word reading and decoding skills.
There are many other types of reading difficulties, and the DSM-5 TR sets out these under the umbrella term of Specific Learning Disorder-Reading, and includes difficulty with reading accuracy, reading fluency and comprehension.
How is dyslexia diagnosed?
The DSM-5 TR also sets out the process that needs to be followed in order to diagnose a Specific Learning Disorder. This is an important process that needs to be followed.
If a student continues to have reading difficulties despite receiving reading support and intervention at school, a psychological assessment (that includes a cognitive assessment and an educational assessment) may be the next step.
Psychological assessment
The cognitive assessment is an IQ test that measures a student’s cognitive (intelligence) ability as related to academic performance including their verbal comprehension, problem solving, working memory and processing speed. It can identify areas of strengths and weaknesses.
The educational assessment is a standardised test of a student’s ability in language, reading, spelling, writing and mathematics. It highlights areas of strengths and weaknesses in these areas and as compared to their peers.
Used together, these tests are used to understand the reasons for your child’s academic difficulties, help to diagnose dyslexia (if warranted) and provide specific recommendations for the school and home environment.
Something to remember.
A child’s identified reading difficulty is only one piece of the puzzle that describes who they are. Their interests, strengths, hobbies, sporting endeavours, character traits… are other pieces of the puzzle.
It is important not to view a learning difficulty as a deficit, but as a difficulty that can be managed with the appropriate intervention, accommodation, and support.
This short, animated film follows the journey of a young student with dyslexia and demonstrates the experience of having a learning difficulty within a school system. It is written, directed, and produced by two students who have dyslexia. It is a film that has a positive message of overcoming struggles.
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