By Dr Praveen Gupta
Dyslexia is a learning disability characterised by difficulty with word recognition, decoding, and correct or fluent spelling. These challenges are not related to lack of intelligence, emotional problems, or limited education.
Considered a part of neurodiversity, dyslexia is diagnosed in childhood although the consequences can last into adulthood. This neurological disorder makes reading and spelling difficult. People may have trouble reading single words, or recognising common words easily. They often spell words incorrectly, and find it hard to understand new words or patterns in spelling. It can also be hard to hear and work with the sounds in words. Reading may take greater effort, and understanding what’s read can prove more challenging. The right support and tools, though, can go a long way in helping people who suffer from dyslexia.
Impact On Learning
First and foremost, children suffering from dyslexia tend to have poor self-esteem, anxiety and behavioural issues. These kids could be unwilling to attempt something again for fear of making mistakes. It can have a significant impact on their ability to interact with peers. Frustration about the inability to read is widespread, and pupils can feel upset when they compare themselves to others.
Many of these effects are visible at the middle-school level and above. Students at this age might understand that they are learning more slowly than their peers, which may be tough to deal with.
As they get older, they may retreat from peers and adults, which can lead to a variety of problems when they reach adulthood, including an inability to fulfil one’s full potential. The social and emotional problems caused by dyslexia can be just as disruptive as the dyslexia itself.
Students may even suffer academically, and be unable to “catch up” if they do not receive early intervention. Although there is no “treatment” for dyslexia, there are several ways to offer educational help. Parental support and engagement play a significant role.
The earlier the interventions start, the better. Individualised education plans (IEPs) can be implemented, resulting in a structured plan that focuses on each child’s needs, and how the school will assist them. Commonly utilised aids include learning to recognise and use the sounds that make up words (phonetic awareness), comprehending the letters that make up words, and vocabulary development.
Dyslexia not only impairs children’s academic achievement, but it may also have a wide range of social, emotional, and psychological consequences. Early action is important, but it is never too late to put supports in place.
Those with dyslexia must understand that they are not alone. Although dyslexia can affect their learning at various times of life, there is nothing they cannot accomplish.
The writer is Principal Director & Chief of Neurology, Fortis Hospital.
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