About
Dyslexia
Dyslexia
is a brain-based type of learning disability that specifically
impairs a person's ability to read. These individuals typically
read at levels significantly lower than expected despite having
normal intelligence.
Although
the disorder varies from person to person, common
characteristics among people with dyslexia are difficulty with
phonological processing (the manipulation of sounds) and/or
rapid visual-verbal responding.
Treatment
The main
focus of treatment should be on the specific learning problems
of affected individuals. The usual course is to modify teaching
methods and the educational environment to meet the specific
needs of the individual with dyslexia.
Prognosis
For those
with dyslexia, the prognosis is mixed. The disability affects
such a wide range of people, producing different symptoms and
varying degrees of severity, that predictions are hard to
make.
The
prognosis is generally good, however, for individuals whose
dyslexia is identified early, who have supportive family and
friends and a strong self-image, and who are involved in a
proper remediation program.
Research
Public
Health Authorities conduct research on dyslexia. Current
research avenues focus on developing techniques to diagnose and
treat dyslexia and other learning disabilities, increasing the
understanding of the biological basis of learning disabilities,
and exploring the relationship between neurophysiological
processes and cognitive functions with regard to reading
ability.
Reference for
Dyslexia Article
National Institutes
of Health
Health
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