According to the International Dyslexia Association, “Dyslexia is a specific learning disability that is neurobiological in origin. It is characterized by difficulties with accurate and/or fluent word recognition and by poor spelling and decoding abilities. These difficulties typically result from a deficit in the phonological component of language that is often unexpected in relation to other cognitive abilities and the provision of effective classroom instruction. Secondary consequences may include problems in reading comprehension and reduced reading experience that can impede growth of vocabulary and background knowledge.”
The role of Neuropsychology is to provide comprehensive evaluations via objective testing, to assess a person’s reading and writing abilities in the context of general neurocognitive functioning. In addition, the data via the Neuropsychological Examination provides information about brain-behavior functioning and cortical functioning involved in reading and writing conditions, such as dyslexia.
A pivotal article published in 2008, titled, “Learning disabilities: The need for neuropsychological evaluation” from Archives of Clinical Neuropsychology, reads the following, “A learning disability (LD) is a neurobiological disorder that presents as a serious difficulty with reading, arithmetic, and/or written expression that is unexpected, given the individual’s intellectual ability. A learning disability is not an emotional disorder nor is it caused by an emotional disorder. If inadequately or improperly evaluated, a learning disability has the potential to impact an individual’s functioning adversely and produce functional impairment in multiple life domains. When a learning disability is suspected, an evaluation of neuropsychological abilities is necessary to determine the source of the difficulty as well as the areas of neurocognitive strength that can serve as a foundation for compensatory strategies and treatment options.”
Here at NRS|LS, we are here to help you or your child assess for learning disability and provide comprehensive treatment and recommendations.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office.